Ioannis Argyriou, "Critical assessment of the sustainable performance of the Mediterranean ports", Doctoral Dissertation, School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete, Chania, Greece, 2024
https://doi.org/10.26233/heallink.tuc.99960
As the global trade landscape evolves, ports of all sizes face increasingly complex challenges in pursuing sustainable development. Small and medium-sized ports (SMSPs), although often overshadowed by their larger counterparts in international trade and logistics discourse, hold a significant role in global supply chains and regional development. This doctoral Thesis presents a meticulous exploration of small and medium port sustainable planning, addressing the compelling need to understand, enhance, and advocate for the sustainability and resilience of these ports within the global maritime context.The primary objectives of this research are the following: 1. Providing a guide for effective and efficient planning for the sustainability of SMSPs ports,2. Use of the applied methodologies as decision-making tools aimed at optimizing sustainability,3. Ranking of priorities for port sustainability improvement through stakeholders' perspectives,4. Examining the degree of responsiveness /acceptance of stakeholders/citizens to the proposed sustainable development measures,5. Identifying the main indicators covering the vital critical aspects of port sustainability objectives,6. Evaluating and comparing sustainable indicators of different ports based on the application of best sustainable practices and7. Identify and categorize threats prevalent among IoT devices in portsEmploying a multi-methodological approach that encompasses qualitative and quantitative analyses, case studies, cross-port comparisons, and active engagement with port stakeholders, this Thesis provides a holistic understanding of the multifaceted dimensions that shape sustainable planning within SMSPS. The research findings inform a comprehensive framework for sustainable planning, emphasizing the integration of economic, environmental, and social considerations and facilitating the alignment of these ports with global sustainability objectives.As the global community confronts pressing challenges, from climate change and ecological preservation to the need for inclusive economic growth, SMSPs must reconcile these demands with their specific operational contexts. This Thesis emphasizes that these ports are the lifeblood of many coastal communities and are integral to regional and national economies. Their sustainable development, therefore, holds far-reaching implications for broader economic, social, and environmental well-being.By synthesizing diverse research methodologies and presenting real-world case studies, this research not only contributes to the discourse on small and medium port sustainability but also offers practical guidance for port authorities, policymakers, and industry stakeholders. Their unique characteristics highlight that smaller ports can lead the way in sustainable planning, showcasing that local actions can profoundly impact the global sustainability agenda.In conclusion, this doctoral Thesis is a foundational resource for all interested in the sustainable planning of SMSPs. It underscores the significance of these ports in the global trade network and provides tools for sustainable development, emphasizing their role as key drivers of regional economic growth and environmental stewardship. Furthermore, as the maritime world navigates towards a more sustainable future, this research offers a compass to guide SMSPs on their journey towards resilience, environmental responsibility, and economic prosperity.