The port of Lisbon (Portugal) launched its new Tagus Innov programme last week to support innovation in the blue economy. The aim is to “create an ecosystem capable of promoting and spreading useful technologies in the fields of digitisation, decarbonisation, intermodality, and circularity in the maritime economy.” The launch took place on Innovation Day, a day of meetings and debate for sharing international experiences of innovation in the port and maritime sectors. AIVP was represented at the event by J. M. P. Sanchez, director of the Agenda 2030 by AIVP.

Molumba OÜ and Mareld landscape architects have won the architectural design competition for the terminal A quarter at Port of Tallinn (Estonia). Their winning design balances an attractive building composition, functionality, and urban landscape. The competition, held in two stages, shortlisted 10 participants based on their previous work, with the jury ultimately evaluating 9 conceptual designs submitted. The winning design stood out for its balanced architectural aesthetics, particularly in the passenger walkways and the integration of existing and new office buildings. The objective of the architectural design competition was to find the best architectural concept regarding the building complex of the new terminal A of Tallinn’s Old City Harbour, the new office building and multistorey car park of AS Tallinna Sadam (Port of Tallinn) and the adjacent public urban space.

The Port of Barranquilla (Colombia) and GreenYellow Colombia have signed an agreement to install five solar roofs throughout about 12 hectares of the port area. This installation will generate 31% of the energy required by the port’s operations. Specifically, the solar roofs will be installed on several warehouses, including the refrigerated warehouse. This project underlines the importance the port places on promoting innovative initiatives and transitioning the port sector to clean energy sources. Energy self-generation projects in the port of Barranquilla is a response to the urgent need to reduce its carbon footprint and increasing the efficiency and sustainability of the port.

On Thursday 16 November, MEPs on EU’s transport and tourism committee voted to extend the existing rules in a clampdown on discharges of pollutants by ships in European waters. The rules will be based on international standards. MEPs want shipowners to be held liable for the environmental damage caused by their vessels if the captain or crew are unable to pay fines. The plenary is due to vote next week on proposals to open talks between Member States on the final shape of the legislation.

New York (United States) is preparing for the impacts of climate change, by creating a public waterfront on the banks of the Hudson river. In addition to a playing field and promenades, the park also includes a salt marsh, oyster habitat, and soft edges to allow for tidal pools. This intertidal ecosystems along the urban shoreline was installed by AIVP member Econcrete. There is also a beach open to the public, but only kayak launches are permitted, and people are not allowed to swim in the water.