Hub Azul Portugal

Journey To Sustainability: Net Zero Ports & Harbours | Barcelona 2024

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Hub Azul Portugal was present in Barcelona at the Journey to Sustainability: Net Zero Ports & Harbours initiative, an international event dedicated to the sustainable transition of ports and maritime infrastructure, bringing together experts, decision-makers and stakeholders from the maritime-port sector.

Manuel Melo, Innovation Manager of the Hub Azul Portugal network and a leading figure in the Fórum Oceano – Blue Economy Cluster, was one of the guest speakers, contributing to the debate on the sustainable future of maritime operations.

The critical role of ports and marinas in green energy

In his presentation, entitled ‘The Critical Role of Ports and Harbours in Developing the Provision of Green Energy to Ship/Boat Operators’, Manuel Melo discussed in depth the strategic role of ports and marinas in developing and providing green energy solutions for ships and boats.

The intervention highlighted several key areas:

  • Future prospects for the adoption of renewable energy in the maritime sector, identifying emerging trends and technological innovations with transformative potential;
  • Alignment with sustainability goals, emphasising the importance of integrating clean energy solutions into port decarbonisation strategies;
  • Collaboration challenges, focusing on the difficulties of cooperation between different stakeholders and the need for effective governance and partnership models to build a green and integrated energy infrastructure.

Contribution to the transition to the Blue Economy

Hub Azul Portugal’s participation in this event reinforces its commitment to promoting innovation, sustainability and international cooperation in the Blue Economy. Sharing knowledge and experiences in international forums such as this is essential to accelerate the transition to net-zero emission ports and marinas, contributing to a more resilient, competitive maritime sector that is aligned with global climate goals.

Hub Azul Portugal will continue to support initiatives and projects that promote sustainable and collaborative solutions, positioning Portugal as a key player in the transformation of the international maritime ecosystem.