Λιμάνια ως κόμβοι κυκλικής οικονομίας : ενσωμάτωση αρχών πράσινης ναυτιλίας και βιώσιμων υποδομών για μείωση εκπομπών και αποβλήτων
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Keywords
Κυκλική οικονομία ; Πράσινη ναυτιλία ; Βιώσιμες λιμενικές υποδομές ; Διαχείριση αποβλήτων ; Cold ironingAbstract
The pressing need to reduce the environmental impacts of maritime and port-related activities calls for the adoption of innovative approaches that emphasize circular economy principles, green shipping, and sustainable development. This thesis investigates the potential of ports to serve as dynamic hubs of circular economy practices, examining how the integration of green maritime principles and sustainable infrastructure can contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and ship-generated waste. The primary objective is to identify the technologies and strategies adopted to achieve these goals, while also understanding the regulatory, technical, and financial challenges faced by port authorities.
The research methodology is based on a literature and policy review, as well as the analysis of three case studies: the ports of Piraeus, Rotterdam, and Singapore. The study focuses on the adaptation of ports to support green vessels, the deployment of cold ironing/shore power infrastructure, the facilitation of alternative fuel supply, and circular waste management systems. These infrastructures aim to minimize shipborne waste, promote recycling and reuse, and enable the use of renewable energy sources - both onboard vessels and in port facilities.
The findings highlight the urgent need for the establishment of institutional and financial incentives to accelerate the circular transition of ports. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of a harmonized and collaborative transition at the European level, emphasizing the need for common specifications, unified standards, and coherent policy frameworks. Such alignment would ensure the interoperability of infrastructure and enhance the effectiveness and scalability of circular solutions across the broader European port network