Green Port – A Crucial Factor in Green Logistics

Green port development has become a key strategy in sustainable maritime logistics, aiming to minimize environmental impacts while maintaining operational efficiency. Faced with environmental issues arising in the port industry, along with the implementation of global goals, port operations of businesses doing port business and operators are being “greened” according to a model that balances environmental fluctuations and economic development needs.

Introduction

With global environmental concerns on the rise, sustainable development has become a pressing issue across industries. In the logistics and maritime sectors, the concept of a “Green Port” is gaining traction as an essential element in achieving green logistics. Vietnam, as an emerging maritime hub, is actively implementing policies and initiatives to develop green ports, aligning with its commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050 under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP26).

Vietnam’s Green Port Initiatives

Vietnam’s maritime industry is taking proactive steps to achieve sustainability. The government’s Decision No. 888/QD-TTg and the Vietnam Maritime Administration’s Decision No. 710/QD-CHHVN outline a roadmap for green port development. By 2030, green port compliance will transition from voluntary to mandatory, ensuring environmental responsibility in maritime operations.

Several Vietnamese ports, including Tan Cang Cat Lai, Tan Cang – Cai Mep Thi Vai, and Gemadept Dung Quat, have already met green port criteria. These ports have adopted modern electric cargo handling equipment, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and optimizing operational efficiency. The transition towards digitalization is also a key factor, with AI-driven logistics management systems improving container handling, reducing waiting times, and minimizing environmental impact.

Green Ports as a Vital Link in Green Logistics

Green ports play a fundamental role in the logistics chain, integrating sustainability with economic efficiency. The National Strategy for Green Growth (2021-2030) prioritizes green logistics, focusing on environmentally friendly transportation, waste management, and energy-efficient operations. Major Vietnamese ports are already implementing initiatives to align with this vision.

For example, Tan Cang – Cat Lai Port, one of the largest in Vietnam, has led the way by replacing diesel-powered equipment with electric alternatives, significantly cutting fuel costs and emissions. Electronic document systems have reduced paper waste and streamlined processes, lowering vehicle idling times and enhancing efficiency.

Similarly, Long An International Port has invested in renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels, energy-efficient LED lighting, and electric-powered cranes. By 2030, the port aims to implement shore power systems, further reducing its carbon footprint.

Investment and Technological Innovation in Green Ports

The shift toward green ports requires significant investment, particularly in clean energy, digitalization, and modernized port infrastructure. The Vietnam Maritime Administration has been working closely with investors to promote green finance opportunities, urging businesses to adopt sustainable practices.

One notable example is the commitment of CMIT (Cai Mep International Terminal) to The Climate Pledge, an initiative co-founded by Amazon to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040. This commitment reflects Vietnam’s ambition to integrate sustainability with economic growth, making green ports a competitive advantage in global trade.

Technological advancements are also key to green port transformation. Digital twins, AI-driven predictive maintenance, and smart container tracking are being introduced to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Ports such as Gemalink have deployed automated cranes and AI-integrated container-handling systems to optimize operations while minimizing energy consumption.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite the progress, challenges remain in achieving widespread adoption of green port standards. High costs of renewable energy solutions and digital infrastructure pose financial barriers for many businesses. Additionally, there is a need for greater government support in green financing, investment incentives, and policy enforcement.

To address these challenges, experts suggest strengthening public-private partnerships and enhancing knowledge-sharing initiatives among ports. Expanding waterway transport is also a promising solution, as it significantly reduces emissions compared to road transport. For instance, Saigon Tan Cang Corporation has successfully implemented barge transport solutions, reducing fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by up to 80%.

Conclusion

Green ports are a crucial component in the evolution of sustainable logistics, playing a key role in reducing environmental impact while enhancing economic growth. Vietnam is making significant strides in its green port initiatives, but continued investment, policy support, and technological advancements are necessary to overcome challenges.

As global trade demands increasingly sustainable solutions, Vietnam’s commitment to green port development will strengthen its position as a key player in the maritime and logistics sectors. By fostering green logistics, the country can achieve both environmental and economic sustainability, paving the way for a greener future in global shipping.

Source: Various sources

Read more about Vietnam’s FDI attraction in February 2025 here.