Energy efficiency in ports from a green port perspective: a conceptual framework

Abstract

Ports can be defined as the main centers of maritime transportation and trade, which provide the continuity of international trade as well as provide loading and unloading services to ships. As a result of the globalizing world, the importance of ports has continued to increase day by day because trade can be made faster and more efficiently. The fact that the ports are located at such a critical point, the increasing transaction volume, and the development of environmentally sensitive systems bring along an inevitable process of change. At this point, with increasing awareness, the concept of a green port has been developed. Green port is an approach that aims to minimize the adverse effects on the environment and ecosystem. While the ports continue their activities to achieve this goal, it aims to use systems that use energy resources efficiently and effectively while meeting energy needs and having the most negligible impact on the ecosystem. The equipment that maintains port operations, port equipment, and ships berthing in the port are energy-consuming elements. This study aims to analyze the energy efficiency in ports from a green port perspective by using the literature review method. In this context, the energy efficiency practices of two of the leading ports in Europe were examined. As a result of the qualitative analysis, it has been determined that the studies of the ports for energy efficiency have reached a critical point, and an approach compatible with the green port principles has been exhibited.