EU-Funded Energy-Related Projects for Sustainable Ports: Evidence from the Port of Piraeus

Charalampos Platias () and Dimitris Spyrou
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Charalampos Platias: Department of International, European & Area Studies, Panteion University of Social & Political Sciences, 17671 Athens, Greece
Dimitris Spyrou: Strategic Planning & Marketing Department, Piraeus Port Authority S.A., Akti Miaouli 10, 18538 Piraeus, Greece

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 5, 1-27

Abstract: Energy matters are a challenge for many ports and port industry stakeholders, especially in today’s rapidly changing environment and on the back of multiple transitions in the sector. In particular, mainstreaming environmental targets and sustainability in port operation and development affects strategic choices. This article focuses on EU-funded energy-related projects in the Port of Piraeus, presenting field evidence in the form of a case study. We take stock of efforts undertaken, results achieved and impacts of the projects so far, in order to provide useful insights for the industry, but also reflections on policy and governance in this subject area. We argue that implemented projects have created added value for the port and clearly helped achieve its stated objectives, in relation to both energy and environmental issues and promoting sustainability. What is more, goal-setting has often been initiated within the framework of the projects and/or their implementation. In addition, project identification and implementation have produced positive externalities for the port, thus laying the groundwork for further change. Project impacts obviously depend on many different factors, as well as on their interaction. The momentum for EU-funded energy-related projects in the port sector will hold up and most probably grow, as will mainstreaming sustainability. Industry, policy and governance need to step up their efforts in order to maximise results.

Keywords: EU-funded energy-related projects; port operation and development; environment; sustainability; Port of Piraeus (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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