Towards Sustainable Maritime Logistics: Emission Sources, Impacts and Mitigation Strategies - Case Study of Central Klaipeda Terminal

Abstract

Over recent decades, the European Union has implemented robust measures to combat climate change, achieving a net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of approximately 37% by 2023 relative to 1990 levels. This achievement is a result of the expanded deployment of renewable energy sources and a shift away from high- carbon fossil fuels. With the increase of global attention to the ecological consequences of maritime activities, especially in coastal and port areas, the framework of sustainable logistics has gained attention as an essential approach to mitigating emissions and safeguarding marine environments. The article examines critical ignored sources in current maritime decarbonization efforts, where attention has mostly stayed on onboard ship fuels and designs rather than the full land-sea interface. It further evaluates the stipulated and proposed policy, its implications, and the contributions of various stakeholders in advancing sustainable maritime transport. Drawing on the Central Klaipeda Terminal as an illustrative example, the analysis highlights strategies for enhancing air quality through targeted reductions in gaseous pollutants.