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1 INTRODUCTION
Port cities are crucial to the global supply chain,
serving as points of convergence for maritime and
inland transportation systems. This strategic position,
while vital for international trade, presents a range of
transport-related challenges, with issues of congestion,
environmental sustainability, and governance
standing at the forefront (Merk, Thai-Thanh, 2013). The
influx of goods moving through port cities leads to
substantial congestion, both in the ports themselves
and in the surrounding urban areas. Port-related traffic
often overlaps with everyday city traffic, intensifying
congestion and putting immense pressure on transport
infrastructure. The issue is particularly severe in older
port cities, where infrastructure may not have been
designed to handle modern trade volumes (John-
Alder, Whiteman, 2022). Heavy-duty vehicles
transporting goods from ports to designated areas add
further pressure to roads, which are often ill-equipped
for the size and volume of vehicles involved. This
congestion impacts not only the efficiency of goods
movement but also the quality of life for city residents
due to delays, noise, and increased accident risks
(González-Laxe et al., 2023). In response to these
challenges, some cities have adopted traffic
management solutions to streamline transport flows
between port zones and urban centres (Roberts et al.,
2023). This approach has shown promise in pilot
projects in cities like Antwerp and Trieste, where
Innovative Approaches to Transport Challenges in Port
Cities Based on Literature Review
A. Jankowska
Gdynia Maritime University, Gdynia, Poland
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contribute significantly to CO2 emissions, while outdated infrastructure in older port cities exacerbates these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.
http://www.transnav.eu
the International Journal
on Marine Navigation
and Safety of Sea Transportation
Volume 19
Number 2
June 2025
DOI: 10.12716/1001.19.02.16
470
integrated systems help reduce bottlenecks by
improving coordination between transport networks
and managing traffic in real-time (European
Commission, 2020).
A major issue linked to transport congestion in port
cities is also environmental pollution. The high volume
of heavy-duty vehicles, combined with port
operations, contributes significantly to CO₂ emissions
and local air pollution (Hall, 2018). Ports are also often
located in densely populated areas, which makes it
challenging to balance the demands of a functioning
port with the needs of the urban environment. Studies
estimate that freight transport accounts for a large
portion of CO₂ emissions in port cities, with heavy-
duty trucks being a major contributor (Kotowska,
Kubowicz, 2019). To address this, some cities are
exploring greener transport options and low-emission
zones. Expanding public transportation networks,
promoting the use of electric or hybrid trucks for short-
distance hauls, and implementing incentives for rail
and inland waterway transport are strategies aimed at
reducing the environmental impact of freight
movement (Carpenter & Lozano, 2020). Port cities like
Rotterdam and Hamburg have invested heavily in
green corridors and intermodal logistics hubs that
support these environmentally friendly modes of
transport, hoping to make freight movements both
cleaner and more efficient. These efforts reflect a
growing emphasis on sustainability and innovation to
tackle the complex transport challenges that port cities
face (Gurzhiy et al., 2021).
Building on these advancements, effective
governance becomes critical in ensuring that such
initiatives are successfully implemented and aligned
with broader urban priorities. Effective governance is
essential in addressing transport challenges in port
cities, as these urban areas must manage a delicate
balance between the operational needs of ports and the
broader urban agenda. A common challenge in port
city governance is the need for collaboration among
various stakeholders, including municipal
governments, port authorities, and private companies.
The overlapping jurisdictions and interests can lead to
fragmented approaches and policy conflicts,
particularly when it comes to spatial planning and
transportation priorities (D’Amico et al., 2021). An
example of successful governance in this area is the
European Commission's PORTIS initiative, which
worked across several European port cities to promote
integrated governance models and sustainable
mobility solutions. This included efforts to connect
public transit systems with port logistics, which helped
reduce reliance on private cars and improved
accessibility for workers and residents alike.
Collaborative projects like these highlight the
importance of multi-stakeholder engagement in
creating sustainable, resilient transport frameworks for
port cities (European Commission, 2020).
In addition to governance efforts, technological
innovations are playing an interestingly pivotal role in
addressing transport issues within port cities. These
advancements complement policy initiatives by
providing tools to enhance efficiency and
sustainability. Digital tools, such as real-time traffic
monitoring, predictive analytics, and automated
freight management systems, are helping port
authorities and municipalities to optimize the flow of
goods and reduce congestion. For instance, automated
scheduling systems can help coordinate freight
movements, reducing peak load pressures on transport
networks (Kosiek et al., 2021). Digital twins—virtual
models of physical systems—are also gaining traction
as a way to simulate and improve the interactions
between port operations and urban mobility (Ilin et al.,
2019). In addition to digital solutions, physical
infrastructure improvements are underway in some
cities. High-speed rail connections, expanded metro
lines, and dedicated freight lanes are among the
infrastructure upgrades that support more seamless,
sustainable transport in port areas. Looking forward,
the development of autonomous freight vehicles and
drones for last-mile delivery also presents new
possibilities for reducing road congestion and
emissions in port cities (González-Laxe et al., 2023).
Addressing transport challenges in port cities is a
multifaceted issue that requires an integrated
approach. Congestion, pollution, and governance
issues are intertwined, and effective solutions must
balance the operational demands of ports with the
needs of urban residents and environmental priorities.
Successful approaches often combine sustainable
transport modes, innovative governance frameworks,
and advanced technologies to optimize transport flows
and reduce the negative impacts of port activity on city
life. As these strategies evolve, port cities have the
opportunity to transform into cleaner, more efficient
nodes within the global supply chain while
maintaining liveable, sustainable urban environments
for residents.
2 TRANSPORT CHALLENGES IN PORT CITIES
The duality of the port cities creates complex
interactions between the operational needs of ports
and the demands of urban mobility, often resulting in
significant congestion, environmental strain, and
governance challenges. The coordination of freight and
passenger traffic within these cities leads to
overlapping transport systems that can hinder
efficiency and exacerbate negative externalities, such
as increased emissions and reduced quality of life.
According to independent research conducted by Olaf
Merk and Dang Thai-Thanh, port cities experience
unique pressures because of their dual roles as
economic centres and community spaces. As port cities
grow, congestion intensifies, fueled by increased
freight activity alongside everyday urban traffic,
exacerbating environmental and social challenges
(Merk, Thai-Thanh, 2013). Similarly, Peter Hall
highlights that port cities must balance industrial
expansion with the livability of urban areas, a tension
that often generates conflicts over space, pollution, and
traffic management (Hall, 2018).
Understanding these challenges requires
a multidimensional perspective, encompassing
infrastructure limitations, regulatory frameworks, and
the broader socio-economic impacts of transport
inefficiencies. The growth in global trade and the
increasing size and volume of goods moving through
ports have only intensified these pressures,
particularly in cities where historical infrastructure is
ill-equipped to the modern demands. Moreover, the
environmental footprint of freight transport highlights
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the urgent need for sustainable and innovative
solutions to ensure the viability of both ports and their
surrounding urban environments. Several studies
underscore the environmental and logistical burdens
that come with heavy truck movements in port areas.
Polish researchers Kotowska and Kubowicz note that
road transport remains the dominant mode of
hinterland cargo movement, which significantly
contributes to CO₂ emissions and congestion
(Kotowska, Kubowicz, 2019). According to the
European Commission, heavy-duty vehicles are
responsible for approximately a quarter of CO₂
emissions from road transport across the EU, making
their impact on urban air quality and public health a
pressing concern (European Commission, 2020). This
environmental impact also intersects with economic
demands. Interestingly enough, Spanish researchers
emphasize that, while maritime transport is one of the
most sustainable transport modes in terms of CO₂
emissions, the surrounding urban areas are deeply
affected by port activities. As strategic locations for
trade, port cities often face bottlenecks that can disrupt
economic activity if left unmanaged. González-Laxe
advocates for balancing economic priorities with social
sustainability to maintain livable conditions for port
city residents (González-Laxe et al., 2023). However,
such efforts often face financial and logistical barriers,
particularly in smaller port cities with limited
resources. Research conducted by another Polish
analysts confirms that the expansion of port cities into
dense urban regions further complicates this issue, as
port-related traffic merges with regular city traffic,
causing significant congestion and increasing pollutant
levels (Budzyński et al., 2017; Ziemska-Osuch, Guze,
2023). Similarly, researchers from Gdynia Maritime
University (GMU) highlight that mobility challenges in
port cities are not limited to freight transport but also
extend to the commuting patterns of institutions locate
within port areas. A case study on GMU reveals that
the transport habits of its employees and students are
not aligned with the principles of sustainable mobility,
further exacerbating congestion and environmental
concerns in the city. Authors argue that integrating
institutional mobility plans with broader urban
transport strategies is essential for reducing traffic
burdens in port cities and enhancing their
sustainability. This reinforces the need for a
comprehensive approach that considers both freight
logistics and everyday urban mobility in transport
planning (Kaszuba et al., 2023).
Resilience and climate adaptation are further
essential considerations. Piet Dircke, a leading climate
adaptation expert, points out that ports face mounting
pressures from climate change, including rising sea
levels and extreme weather events. This has
necessitated that ports not only address immediate
congestion and pollution issues but also develop long-
term adaptation strategies to protect infrastructure and
maintain economic resilience. He suggests phased
planning as a solution to integrate sustainability and
resilience into port city development effectively
(Dircke, 2022). Port governance also plays a crucial role
in addressing these challenges. The Belgian professor
in his book observe that while port authorities'
autonomy has allowed for more rapid adaptation to
logistical changes, it has also created spatial and policy
conflicts between ports and cities. This research
suggests that port and city authorities often operate
with conflicting spatial visions, an issue that could be
resolved by shifting focus from division to cooperation,
planning the strengths and addressing the challenges
of both entities together (Van Den Berghe, 2018). To
tackle these issues, innovative approaches in
governance and mobility have emerged. For instance,
the EU-funded PORTIS project, cited by the European
Commission, demonstrates a model for integrating
sustainable mobility solutions across five major port
cities. This initiative aims to reduce car dependency by
implementing multi-modal transport hubs and
strengthening collective transit between city and port.
Such projects have shown that a comprehensive, data-
driven approach can foster collaboration between port
authorities and municipal governments, facilitating
more efficient transport flows and reducing
environmental impact (European Commission, 2020).
Nonetheless, thee approaches must be adapted to
varying regional contexts, as financial constraints and
institutional fragmentation can hinder
implementation.
Lastly, Anastasia Gurzhiy and Tony Roberts
highlight the potential role of technological innovation
in mitigating these challenges. They argue that
digitalization, automation, and data-driven solutions
can play an essential part in optimizing traffic
management and streamlining cargo movement. These
advancements could enable port cities to manage
congestion more effectively, ensuring efficient
movement of goods while minimizing the impact on
local communities (Gurzhiy et al., 2021; Roberts et al.,
2023). Technological innovation has long been
regarded as a key driver of efficiency and
transformation in complex systems, including urban
and transport networks. Theories of innovation
diffusion and technological determinism suggest that
the adoption of new technologies can fundamentally
reshape industries and societal practices by offering
novel solutions to longstanding challenges. In the
context of port cities, where intersection of urban life
and industrial operations creates unique pressures,
innovation can serve as a critical tool for balancing
economic demands with environmental and social
priorities. Even though, the successful deployment of
these technologies depends on empirical validation of
their effectiveness, financial feasibility and stakeholder
acceptance.
Figure 1 presents six major challenges faced by port
cities, which were identified by the researchers whose
publications were used to develop this chapter. These
challenges focus on congestion, air pollution,
governance constraints, climate change, ageing
infrastructure and noise pollution. This chapter
drawing on a review of relevant literature, it examines
the root causes of these issues and their impact on
urban life, while setting the stage for the subsequent
discussion of technological innovations as potential
solutions. Through this exploration it is possible to
provide a comprehensive understanding of the
transport dynamics in port cities and the critical need
for integrated, sustainable approaches to address these
multifaced problems. In summary, port cities face
intertwined challenges of congestion, environmental
impact, and governance complexities. Addressing
these issues requires a multifaceted approach
involving sustainable mobility solutions, enhanced
governance structures, and advanced technologies.
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The cumulative insights from these researchers
underline the need for integrated strategies that bridge
the gaps between urban and port planning, aligning
economic objectives with environmental and social
priorities for a sustainable future in port cities.
Figure 1. Main challenges faced by port cities. Source: Own
elaboration.
3 TECHNOLOGICAL SOLUTIONS ADDRESSING
TRANSPORT CHALLENGES
Technological innovations have become essential in
tackling complex transport challenges, transforming
how systems operate to improve efficiency,
sustainability, and resilience. Advances in digital tools,
automation, and data driven technologies allow
stakeholders to address pressing issues such as
congestion, pollution, and infrastructure strain.
Initiatives such as Smart Cities and Intelligent
Transport Systems (ITS) demonstrate how real-time
data, predictive analytics, and automated processes
can enhance traffic management, optimize mobility,
and reduce environmental impacts. In port cities,
where the overlap of freight and urban transport
creates unique pressures, these technologies play a
critical role in managing traffic flows, alleviating
bottlenecks, and minimizing the environmental
footprint of heavy transport operations. By integration
such innovations, transport networks can respond
more effectively to growing demands, ensuring
smoother, more sustainable movement of goods and
people. However, the practical implementation of
these solutions requires further empirical validation,
particularly regarding cost-effectiveness and
scalability across different port contexts.
Smart technologies are revolutionizing port
operations by streamlining logistics, improving
decision-making, and increasing efficiency. The
Internet of Things (IoT) connects port infrastructure,
allowing for real-time tracking of cargo, monitoring
equipment and optimizing storage space. Artificial
Intelligence (AI) analyses vast amounts of data to
predict traffic congestion, automate scheduling, and
reduce delays in cargo handling. Big Data enables port
managers to identify trends, detect inefficiencies and
make better-informed operational decisions. Polish
researchers argue that IoT and AI are pivotal in
creating Smart Ports, improving both logistics and
communication between different stakeholders
(Kosiek et al., 2021). Similarly, analysts from Tunisia
and Morocco emphasizes the importance of real-time
data systems in modernizing port supply chains,
making transport processes more efficient and
predictable (Bessid et al., 2021). Another Africans
provide a specific case study on Tangier Med Port,
demonstrating how IoT applications such as real-time
tracking, automated systems and optimized container
stacking significantly improve operational efficiency
and competitiveness (Bouhlal et al., 2022).
Additionally, German researchers also underscore the
transformative role of digital technologies, identifying
three generations of digital evolution in ports and
highlighting trends such as predictive analytics and
automated decision-making systems (Heilig et al.,
2017).
The transformation of traditional ports into Smart
Ports represents a crucial shift in modern maritime
logistics, driven by the need for greater efficiency,
sustainability and technological integration.
Researchers gave delved into this transition, focusing
on the challenges of implementation and the critical
factors that contribute to its success. The shift toward
Smart Ports is further explored in studies analysing
implementation challenges and success factors. Polish
researcher Karaś identifies the complexities of selecting
and deploying intelligent systems, particularly in
North Sea ports, as they strive to align with smart port
trends (Karaś, 2020). Meanwhile, Canadian analysts
outline the evolution of ports into Industry 4.0 ready
ecosystems, proposing characteristics and domains
necessary for successful integration (Belmoukari et al.,
2023). Spanish researchers extend this discussion,
examining the pillars of Industry 4.0, including IoT,
cybersecurity and data analytics, also highlighting
their varying levels of maturity in the maritime
industry (de la Peña Zarzuelo et al., 2020).
Ports are also recognized as critical players in
promoting sustainability through the adoption of
green technologies and innovative operational
frameworks. Norwegian scientists categorize tools and
technologies that address port sustainability,
emphasizing the need for empirical research to support
decision-making (Bjerkan & Seter, 2019). English
researchers further discuss sustainability performance
metrics, identifying trends in green operations and
highlighting challenges in achieving consistent
sustainability assessments across ports (Lim et al.,
2019). While green innovations such as electrification,
alternative fuels, and emission control technologies
offer promising solutions, their large-scale
implementation remains hindered by high upfront
costs and regulatory inconsistencies.
When examining the state of innovation in specific
regions, researchers have noted varying levels of
adaptation and maturity. Brazilian analysts highlight
the gradual transformation of Brazilian ports, where
innovations such as cloud computing and drone
technology are being adopted, although inconsistently.
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This uneven progression reflects broader challenges in
integrating new technologies into existing port
infrastructures, including funding limitations and
resistance to change (Cunha et al., 2023). Similarly,
Chinese scientists explore the global implementation of
IoT in ports, emphasizing its role in automating
operations and the challenges of testing and calibrating
sensing systems across diverse settings (Yang et al.,
2018). By synthesizing these perspectives, it is clear that
technological innovations are central to addressing
transport challenges in ports. However, the pace of
implementation, effectiveness of adaptation, and
alignment with sustainability goals vary significantly,
reflecting the diverse conditions and priorities across
global port systems such as including financial
viability, institutional support, and workforce
adaptation. Ports with stable government support and
long-term investment strategies are more likely to fully
integrate smart technologies, while those in developing
regions may require additional policy incentives and
financial assistance.
Table 1. Overview of Smart Port Technologies and their
global implementation.
Technology
Effects and
benefits
Examples of
implementation
Internet of
Things
Increased
efficiency, error
reduction,
improved
coordination of
operations
Tangier Med
Port (Morocco)
Artificial
Intelligence
Reduced
handling time,
better forecasting,
automated
decision making
Port of
Rotterdam
(Netherlands)
Big Data
Enhanced
operation
planning,
bottleneck
identification,
efficient resource
allocation
Port of
Hamburg
(Germany)
Cybersecurity
Reduced risk of
cyberattacks,
increased trust
among business
partners
Port of
Singapore
(Singapore)
Green
Technologies
Lower
environmental
impact, improved
image of ports as
eco-friendly
Port of Los
Angeles (USA)
Cloud
Technologies
Reduced IT costs,
greater
operational
flexibility, easier
access to data
Port of Santos
(Brazil)
Drone
technologies
Improved
monitoring of
infrastructure
condition,
increased safety
Port of Lisbon
(Portugal)
Source: Own elaboration.
To provide a comprehensive overview, the table
above summarizes previously mentioned, key
technologies, their applications, and the benefits they
bring to modern port operations, supported by real-
world examples from all around the globe. The
integration of advanced technologies in ports has
become a cornerstone of modern maritime logistics,
addressing critical challenges. From IoT and AI to
green innovations and cybersecurity, these tools are
revolutionizing how ports operate, enabling smarter,
more agile and environmentally conscious systems.
The implementation of these technologies varies across
the regions, reflecting differences in infrastructure
readiness and strategic priorities, but the overarching
trend points towards a unified goal of creating Smart
Ports that align with Industry 4.0 principles. Moving
forward, a greater emphasis on empirical studies and
quantitative data will be essential to determine the
most effective pathways for Smart Port development.
4 THE FUTURE OF TECHNOLOGY IN PORT
CITIES
The future of technology in port cities is poised to
revolutionize the way these urban-maritime hubs
operate, transforming them into highly efficient,
interconnected and intelligent ecosystems. As
digitalisation accelerates, emerging technologies are
set to redefine logistics, urban planning and
sustainable efforts in port cities. This chapter delves
into how innovations such as IoT, AI and blockchain
alongside advanced data analytics, will shape the next
generation of port cities by enhancing efficiency,
improving environmental sustainability, and fostering
a seamless integration between urban and maritime
environments. Understanding these trends will be key
to developing strategies that ensure port cities remain
competitive and livable in the years ahead.
Port cities, as dynamic hubs of trade, urban
development, and environmental stewardship, are
leveraging advanced technologies to address their
unique challenges and opportunities. Ciciriello et al.
underscore the importance of adopting an integrated
approach to sustainable planning that integrates
economic performance evaluations with socio-
environmental assessments. This comprehensive
perspective aligns port cities development with the
Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring balanced
growth while respecting urban and maritime
ecosystems (Ciciriello et al., 2024). Such integration is
not merely a theoretical ideal but a pressing necessity,
as the rapid expansion of global trade and urbanization
intensifies the strain on port city infrastructure and
resources. Similarly, Kong and Liu emphasize that
modern port cities must establish interactive
relationships between urban and industrial functions,
promoting multifunctional regions where production,
logistics, trade and research coexist (Kong & Liu, 2021).
This integrated approach strengthens the connection
between port systems and their surrounding cities
fostering both economic and environmental
sustainability.
While sustainability remains a cornerstone of port
city development, its success requires more than just
adopting new technologies. Kong and Liu highlight
how clean energy integration, efficient logistics
networks and low-carbon technologies are central to
balancing economic growth with environmental
responsibility. Hong Kong exemplifies this balance,
with its successful policies incentivizing clean energy
adoption and reducing emissions (Kong & Liu, 2021).
D’Amico et al., however, caution against over-reliance
on technology at the expense of social and
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environmental considerations. They advocate for a
balanced and inclusive approach that not only
addresses logistical challenges but also prioritizes
community well-being, ensuring that technological
advancements align with broader societal and
ecological goals (D’Amico et al., 2021). This perspective
underscores the importance of a comprehensive
approach that values both technological innovation
and the human and environmental contexts in which it
is applied. However, a more critical approach to
sustainable technology adoption is required – one that
considers economic disparities between global ports
and acknowledges potential unintended
consequences.
While smart technologies promise greater efficiency
and automation, their implementation presents
significant obstacles, particularly in governance and
infrastructure. Zheng et al. highlight the potential of
renewable energy systems, interactive visual tools, and
the Historical Urban Landscape (HUL) approach in
optimizing urban and port interactions (Zheng et al.,
2020). These tools combined with circular economy
principles that transform waste into valuable
resources, significantly contribute to the ecological and
economic sustainability of port cities, yet they require
long-term investment and institutional alignment to be
effective. Beškovnik and Bajec build on this by
introducing the concept of a smart port-city ecosystem,
where IoT platforms, big data analytics and machine-
to-machine communication harmonize urban and port
operations. Cities like Hamburg, Antwerp and
Rotterdam demonstrate the potential of IoT
dashboards to monitor productivity, reduce
environmental impacts and improve urban mobility,
creating a more cohesive and efficient urban-maritime
interface (Beškovnik & Bajec, 2021). However, while
these leading ports are making progress, many mid-
sized and developing port cities lack the financial and
organizational capacity to replicate such models. These
examples illustrate that smart technologies are not only
tools for operational efficiency but also key enablers of
broader systemic transformations, allowing port cities
to adapt to the demands of a rapidly changing global
trade landscape while fostering resilience and
sustainability. Nevertheless, without targeted
investment, policy support, and scalable
implementation strategies, the benefits of smart
technologies may remain concentrated in well-funded
ports, widening the gap between leading maritime hub
and smaller, resource-constrained port cities.
The ongoing digital revolution is further
transforming logistics and operations in port cities.
Acciaro et al. describe how technologies such as AI,
blockchain, and automation enable the seamless
movement of goods across intermodal networks. The
concept of the Physical Internet (PI) illustrates a
globally integrated logistics system where real-time
data sharing optimizes cargo movement, reduces
delays, and enhances supply chain transparency
(Acciaro et al., 2020). D’Amico et al. expand on this by
discussing the role of digital platforms like artificial
reality, drones and blockchain in optimizing container
management and environmental monitoring. These
technologies not only improve operational efficiency
but also enhance real-time data access, enabling better
decision-making and stakeholder collaboration. A
notable example is Qingdao’s fully automated
terminal, where AI-driven systems and robotics have
lowered labor costs and significantly increased
operational efficiency (D’Amico et al., 2021). However,
while these innovations hold great potential, their
widespread adoption is often hindered by high
implementation costs, cybersecurity concerns, and the
need for regulatory harmonization. As the pace of
digitalization accelerates, these factors will play a
crucial role in determining whether technological
advancements lead to widespread efficiency gains or
deepen inequalities between technologically advanced
and lagging port cities.
Beyond logistics management, the benefits of
digitalization are increasingly addressing long-
standing urban challenges in port city operations.
Urban congestion and transportation inefficiencies
continue to pose significant obstacles, yet intelligent
traffic management and autonomous technologies
offer promising solutions. Garduño et al. highlight AI-
driven traffic systems, such as those in Hamburg,
which predict congestion patterns, guide vehicles to
less congested routes, and reduce CO2 emissions.
Similarly, real-time truck guidance systems and
advanced parking technologies further streamline
operations, minimizing delays and enhancing the
integration of port and city functions. Autonomous
truck platoons, implemented in Rotterdam and
Singapore, exemplify how logistics innovations can
reduce fuel consumption and emissions while
improving safety and efficiency (Garduño et al., 2020).
While these advancements contribute to a more
efficient and sustainable urban environment, their
large-scale implementation remains dependent on
regulatory adaptation, infrastructure investment, and
public acceptance. These developments illustrate that
technology is not merely optimizing supply chains but
also reshaping urban mobility in port cities, ensuring
that they remain both livable for residents and globally
competitive trade hubs.
As these insights illustrate, the future of port cities
depends on the effective integration of technology,
sustainability, and governance, rather than
technological advancements alone. While digital
platforms, clean energy solutions and smart urban
planning are reshaping port cities into more efficient
and resilient hubs, their success relies on strategic
investment, regulatory adaptation and stakeholder
cooperation. The challenges of scalability, financial
constraints and social acceptance must be addressed to
ensure that innovation benefits all port cities, not just
leading global hubs. By adopting comprehensive
strategies that balance economic growth,
environmental responsibility and social equity, port
cities can navigate the complexities of digital
transformation while securing a sustainable and
competitive future.
5 CONCLUSIONS
Port cities face a complex set of challenges arising from
their dual role as centres of trade and urban activity.
Transport challenges are central to these dynamics, as
the interplay between freight and urban mobility
systems creates significant bottlenecks and
inefficiencies. The overlapping nature of port and
urban transport networks not only intensifies
475
congestion but also complicates the movement of
goods and people, requiring a delicate balance between
operational efficiency and urban livability. Addressing
these interconnected challenges is essential to ensuring
that port cities can support the demands of global trade
without compromising the quality of urban life.
However, to develop truly effective solutions,
a stronger empirical foundation is needed to assess the
real-world applicability of proposed measures across
diverse port city contexts.
The pressing need for environmental stewardship
has spurred the adoption of green technologies, cleaner
energy solutions, and sustainable logistic practices.
Transport-related emissions, particularly from heavy-
duty vehicles, remain one of the primary sources of air
pollution in port cities, underscoring the urgency of
transitioning to low-carbon transport systems. Cities
such as Rotterdam and Hamburg exemplify the success
of these initiatives aimed at integrating green corridors
and intermodal logistic hubs, demonstrating how the
alignment of technological advancements with
sustainability goals can significantly mitigate
emissions and improve air quality. Nonetheless, the
implementation of such initiatives is often constrained
by financial limitations, political criteria, and
disparities between larger, well-funded ports and
smaller, resource-limited port cities. A deeper analysis
of these barriers would be beneficial to ensure that
sustainable mobility strategies are scalable and
adaptable across different urban-maritime
environments.
Effective governance also plays a significant role in
addressing the transport challenges of port cities,
particularly the need to coordinate stakeholders and
harmonize the objectives of port authorities and urban
planners. The overlapping jurisdictions of various
actors often lead to fragmented strategies which can
exacerbate traffic inefficiencies and hinder the
implementation of cohesive transport policies.
Collaborative frameworks, such as the PORTIS project,
highlight the potential for integrated governance
models to align policy, optimize mobility, and foster
equitable urban growth. By focusing on inclusive and
data-driven approaches, governance strategies can
help overcome transport bottlenecks and enhance the
overall efficiency of port-city systems. However, the
success of such initiatives depends on overcoming
institutional resistance to change, conflicts of interest
between stakeholders, and the varying level of
regulatory maturity across different port regions. More
in-depth exploration of governance mechanisms,
including case studies of successful multi-stakeholder
coordination, could provide a clearer roadmap for
implementation.
Technological advancements are equally
transformative in solving transport-related issues.
Innovations such as Internet of Things, Artificial
Intelligence and real-time analytics are reshaping how
port cities manage traffic flows and logistics. These
tools enhance traffic management systems, reduce
congestion, and promote the integration of smart
systems to address the growing demands on transport
infrastructure. By streamlining cargo flows and
improving last-mile delivery through innovations like
autonomous vehicles and predictive analytics,
technology is proving instrumental in reducing
transport delays and emissions. These advancements
not only resolve immediate logistical challenges but
also provide a foundation for more resilient transport
networks in port cities. Although, the practical
deployment of these technologies is often met with
operational challenges, such as high initial investment
costs, cybersecurity concerns, and workforce
adaptation issues. Future research should explore
quantitative assessments of cost-benefit trade-offs
associated with these technologies to provide more
concrete evidence of their long-term viability.
Looking ahead, the future of port cities lies in
adopting integrated strategies that integrate
technological, environmental, and governance
innovations to address their transport challenges. The
seamless synergy between urban and maritime
ecosystems will allow port cities to evolve into
sustainable, resilient hubs capable of meeting the
demands of global trade while improving the quality
of life for their residents. Nevertheless, the extent to
which these strategies can be successfully
implemented will depend on a combination of
empirical validation, interdisciplinary collaboration,
and adaptive policy-making. By tackling transport
inefficiencies, reducing congestion, and implementing
sustainable mobility solutions, port cities can
transform into models of innovative and sustainable
development.
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