Proposing a Framework for Transferability of Greening Projects in European Ports: A Case Study of the Port of Venlo

This research proposes a transferability framework for greening projects within European ports and assesses its applicability to the Port of Venlo, Netherlands. The framework is designed to identify critical criteria necessary for successfully transferring sustainable projects from existing port initiatives to inland ports. A comprehensive literature review and analysis of ongoing greening port initiatives were conducted to delineate these criteria. Subsequently, the methodology was applied to evaluate 11 greening port initiatives from various European ports, considering their potential transferability to the Port of Venlo. Each project’s findings revealed varying transferability levels, highlighting opportunities and constraints associated with transitioning such initiatives to an inland port like Venlo. These results provide valuable insights into the elements contributing to successful greening port project implementation. Moreover, the study deepens understanding regarding the port industry’s sustainability transition and elucidates challenges in adapting sustainable programs to diverse port environments. The proposed transferability framework offers a systematic approach to assess the viability of greening port projects in new port settings, facilitating informed decision-making and fostering sustainable growth within the port sector.