ABSTRACT: Port cities are critical nodes in global trade but face unique transport challenges issuing from their dual role as urban centres and maritime hubs. These challenges include congestion, pollution, and governance complexities, which intensify as global trade grows. Traffic bottlenecks caused by overlapping freight and urban mobility systems disrupt efficiency and elevate environmental and social concerns. Heavy-duty vehicles contribute significantly to CO2 emissions, while outdated infrastructure in older port cities exacerbates these issues. Technological innovations such as real-time traffic monitoring, Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital twins, are transforming how port cities manage logistics and reduce environmental impact. Green transport initiatives, including electric vehicles, intermodal hubs and clean energy systems, demonstrate the potential to reduce emissions and improve urban liveability. Collaborative efforts from governments like the EU-funded PORTIS project showcase how aligning the objectives of port authorities and urban planners can foster resilient, sustainable systems. This paper reviews innovative approaches to addressing transport challenges in port cities, emphasizing sustainable and technological solutions that integrate urban and port operations. The future of port cities lies in adopting integrated approaches that balance economic, environmental and social priorities, ensuring their evolution into efficient, sustainable hubs for global trade and urban life.

KEYWORDS: Maritime Transport, Environment Protection, Marine Traffic, Intermodal Transport, Port Operations, Transport Logistics System (TLS), Port Management, Ports and Harbours

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