How do sustainable port practices influence local communities’ perceptions of ports?

The symbiotic relationship between ports and cities in spatial, social, and cultural terms is fundamental in tackling new transport, urban, and environmental challenges. A positive perception of port clusters within local communities is increasingly becoming a source of competitive advantage for the further development of port clusters and regions. This research examines how the economic, social, and environmental practices of port-managing bodies influence such perceptions and ensure the sustainable development of port clusters and regions. We define sustainable port practices and measure their impact on perceptions of ports. We apply structural equation modeling (SEM) to data from 256 survey responses. The results confirm the importance of sustainable port practices in influencing perceptions. Communication with local communities; the participation of the latter in port management; and investment by the port in local development are key sustainable port practices. The study also confirms the moderating influence of the characteristics of the port region and port cluster.