Since August 2024, the Port Authority of Rotterdam (the Netherlands) has become more approachable and visible to the residents by setting up port consultation hours in three district hubs (Wijkhubs). This effort is intended to respond to questions, complaints, or ideas about the port. It also makes the port to be more accountable for projects that they might have that involve the local community. Not only that, but this initiative also hopes to attract a new potential workforce. From the three centers, the one in Pendrecht-Zuidwijk focuses on questions about the labor market in collaboration with the platform Werken in de Rotterdamse Haven, and two others in Rozenburg and Hoek van Holland that focus more on questions from residents.

The Port of Açu (Brazil) and Sempen have signed an agreement to establish a green ammonia plant in the low-carbon hydrogen hub of the Rio de Janeiro port complex. The production, which could amount to nearly one million tons of hydrogen per year, will start in 2030, with an investment decision expected between 2027 and 2028. In partnership with Wilson Sons, the Port is also testing a biofuel based on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), which should help reduce maritime emissions. Through its commitment to the energy transition, the port of Açu is positioning itself as a strategic hub for green hydrogen and sustainable fuels

In the coming weeks, a call for projects will be launched by the Port of Ashdod (Israel) to select blue economy start-ups from around the world to accompany them in their early stages of development. The initiative is primarily looking for solution providers in the field of logistics and port operations. The selected start-ups will benefit from professional and strategic support, as well as the opportunity to test their solution in real conditions in the port.

The Port of Barcelona (Spain) is moving forward with its commitment to improve marine biodiversity with the start of a new phase of its RegenPorts renaturalisation pilot programme, launched in 2023. A call for companies wishing to participate in the installation of structures that replicate natural reefs has been launched. The initiative seeks to transform ports into spaces for the regeneration of natural capital. The pilot has doubled the richness of species, has increased biomass by 75%, and the amount of CO₂ absorbed was 230 kg. Following the success of the pilot project, RegenPorts plans to install 400 new structures. Participating companies will obtain climate credits and facilitate compliance with key regulations, such as the EU Emissions Trading System.

Launched in 2023, the Urban Logistics Green Deal is a public-private alliance that aims to accelerate the transition of the logistics sector towards less polluting modes of transport in Brussels (Belgium). There are currently 63 member organizations. A new call for applications has just been launched. Interested organizations have until April 31^st to come forward and join this smart and sustainable logistics ecosystem. An evaluation of the first cycle of the green deal will be published in June 2025 and will be used to study the progress of the various members in relation to their previous commitments. In each cycle, interested organizations define objectives and are supported by public and private experts to help them achieve them.

Goa’s (India) Captain of Ports Department has begun restoring over 4,000 m2 of illegally reclaimed jetty land in Chicalim Bay. The land, which was unlawfully reclaimed by M/s Abhishek Engineers Pvt Ltd, will now be returned to its original state after a 15-year-long battle led by the Chicalim Villagers Action Committee (CVAC). On March 5, a joint inspection was conducted by officials from Goa’s Captain of Ports, Coastal Zone Management Authority, State Biodiversity Board, DRDA South, and local stakeholders to assess the progress of the restoration work. The CVAC President urged authorities to adopt a scientific approach in executing the restoration. This marks a huge win for Chicalim residents and environmental activists and sends a strong message against illegal land reclamation in India.