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The Development of Inland Waterway Transport as a Key to Ensuring Sustainability: A Geographic Overview of the Bucharest–Danube Canal

Author

Listed:
  • Gabor-Giovani Luca

    (Faculty of Geography, University of Bucharest, Nicolae Bălcescu Avenue No. 1, 010041 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Daniela-Ioana Guju

    (Faculty of Geography, University of Bucharest, Nicolae Bălcescu Avenue No. 1, 010041 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Laura Comănescu

    (Faculty of Geography, University of Bucharest, Nicolae Bălcescu Avenue No. 1, 010041 Bucharest, Romania)

Abstract

Inland waterway transport faces increasing recognition as a sustainable alternative to conventional transport modes, particularly due to its lower environmental impact and higher efficiency. However, its implementation remains limited in many regions, including Romania, despite substantial potential benefits. This study addresses this gap by assessing the Bucharest–Danube Canal as a strategic infrastructure project capable of supporting Romania’s transition to sustainable transport, aligned with the European Green Deal and the United Nations 2030 Agenda. Employing a structured methodological approach, this research includes a comprehensive literature review and detailed analysis of successful European inland waterway transport projects, systematically correlating findings with specific Sustainable Development Goals. The results illustrate clear relationships between the selected case studies and the targeted goals, highlighting approaches for integrating sustainability into waterway infrastructure. Specifically, the study identifies effective guidelines applicable to Romania and emphasizes the necessity of a comprehensive, multi-dimensional planning approach that exploits the canal’s multifunctional capabilities beyond transportation, encompassing agriculture, tourism, renewable energy, and biodiversity conservation. In conclusion, despite historical and current challenges, the Bucharest–Danube Canal represents a strategic opportunity for Romania, promising significant contributions toward achieving national and regional sustainability objectives.

Suggested Citation

  • Gabor-Giovani Luca & Daniela-Ioana Guju & Laura Comănescu, 2025. "The Development of Inland Waterway Transport as a Key to Ensuring Sustainability: A Geographic Overview of the Bucharest–Danube Canal," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(10), pages 1-27, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:10:p:4438-:d:1655058
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Peter Mako & Andrej Dávid & Patrik Böhm & Sorin Savu, 2021. "Sustainable Transport in the Danube Region," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(12), pages 1-21, June.
    2. Elena Plotnikova & Milita Vienažindienė & Stasys Slavinskas, 2022. "Development of Inland Waterway Transport as a Key to Ensure Sustainability: A Case Study of Lithuania," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(17), pages 1-15, August.
    3. Jan Petru & Vladislav Krivda, 2021. "The Transport of Oversized Cargoes from the Perspective of Sustainable Transport Infrastructure in Cities," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(10), pages 1-26, May.
    4. N. Calderón-Rivera & I. Bartusevičienė & F. Ballini, 2024. "Sustainable development of inland waterways transport: a review," Journal of Shipping and Trade, Springer, vol. 9(1), pages 1-22, December.
    5. Ademar Vilarinho & Lara Bartocci Liboni & Luciana Oranges Cezarino & Javier Durán Micco & Koen Mommens & Cathy Macharis, 2024. "Challenges and Opportunities for the Development of Inland Waterway Transport in Brazil," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(5), pages 1-25, March.
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