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Sustainable Port Operations: Pollution Prevention and Mitigation Strategies

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  • Tiago A. Santos

    (Centre for Marine Technology and Ocean Engineering (CENTEC), Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal)

Abstract

This paper presents a review of current developments in port pollution prevention and mitigation. A systematic categorization of the sources of pollution in the development and operation phases of ports and terminals is first presented. The paper then considers in detail technological and regulatory measures currently being applied to limit port pollution in the operation phase. This review is combined with that of relevant academic research and aims to fill a research gap by identifying the current and emerging port pollution themes and the latest trends in measures for pollution prevention and mitigation. A comprehensive approach is taken in this review by including not only academic research but also the industry’s research and development initiatives and the regulatory authority’s legislation. This paper identifies more than thirty different technological, regulatory, or organizational measures to limit pollution, although details on company-based research and development were found to be scarce. Mitigation of greenhouse gases and air-polluting emissions is identified as the most important field of research, but it is affected by regulatory uncertainties. Further research is needed on topics such as increased alternative fuel provision, digitalization potential for sustainability enhancement, and strategies for engaging stakeholders in greening ports.

Suggested Citation

  • Tiago A. Santos, 2025. "Sustainable Port Operations: Pollution Prevention and Mitigation Strategies," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(11), pages 1-27, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:11:p:4798-:d:1662679
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    References listed on IDEAS

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