Smart port technologies- moving ahead : the challenges and transformation

The maritime industry is known for being a major source of pollution to the environment. With increased environmental awareness, all stakeholders are under pressure to find means to reduce their source of pollution. According to Gartner, “Digitalization” is the process of employing digital technologies and information to transform business operations (Bloomberg, J., 2018). As digitalization is the hot topic in the maritime industry now. Smart technologies are being explored by various stakeholders on how it could help with their business operation while reducing their carbon footprint. Much has been reported on the upsides of these technologies with companies posting their success of their trials however, not many companies and ports have implemented it. In this paper, we will investigate various smart port technologies specifically: drones, smart mooring, smart lighting, and cold ironing to get a better understanding on the trials that has been completed or in progress along with its benefits and challenges. To conclude, we will analyse these smart port technologies with the sustainable lens to determine if they are sustainable provided, they fulfil the three spheres of sustainability mainly economic, environmental, and social.Bachelor of Science (Maritime Studies