Maritime Logistics Research Center participates in Port Days 2024 – Collaboration and discussions on a green future
The Maritime Logistics Research Center participated in the Port Days 2024 event, which was held at Haikko Manor in Porvoo on September 19–20. The Maritime Logistics Research Center of Satakunta University of Applied Sciences organized a thematic discussion at Port Days titled "Digital Green Port."
Satamapäivät (Port Days) is an annual event that brings together port industry professionals to discuss current topics and development trends. This year's main themes were the clean transition and the energy shift in ports. The event included keynote speeches, panel discussions, thematic sessions, and a visit to Kilpilahti.
Satakunta University of Applied Sciences and the Maritime Logistics Research Center have long been working closely with Finnish ports, and this collaboration was highlighted at Port Days 2024. The research center has promoted several innovative projects aimed at combining digitalization with environmentally friendly practices.
– Finnish ports are a crucial part of the global logistics chain, and they must meet both economic and environmental requirements. Our collaboration with the ports has yielded tangible results in utilizing new technologies and reducing the carbon footprint, says lead researcher Minna Keinänen-Toivola.
– The research center is a key player in driving innovation forward. We are committed to developing innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency of ports while considering environmental aspects, continues research manager Johanna Lainio.
The "Digital Green Port" thematic session presented perspectives on how digitalization and innovative solutions can promote environmentally friendly practices in ports. The discussion panel included project manager Heikki Koivisto from the Maritime Logistics Research Center, Markku Mylly from MyNavix, and Carolus Ramsay representing the Finnish Shipowners’ Association. The session was moderated by lead researcher Minna Keinänen-Toivola from the Maritime Logistics Research Center.
Koivisto, a long-time expert and familiar face at Port Days, emphasized during the discussion how digitalization and sustainable development must go hand in hand.
– We need to take bold steps for ports to adapt to a changing environment. Digitalization provides the tools, but without environmental responsibility, we won't reach the goal, Koivisto stressed.
Wili Helenius, a researcher from the Maritime Logistics Research Center, brought a fresh perspective to the event as a first-time participant.
– It was truly inspiring to be involved and see how many port operators are taking the challenges of the green transition and digitalization seriously. The discussions offered excellent opportunities for networking and learning, Helenius said enthusiastically.
The next Port Days will be held in Kokkola in September 2025.