One of the main features of this report remains the Top 10 of environmental priorities, a list which sheds light on the environmental challenges faced by European ports. This ranking provides both ESPO and European policymakers with the critical insights needed to make well-informed decisions. For the third consecutive year, climate change maintains its position as the foremost environmental concern for European ports.
Apart from climate change, other key priorities in the sector shifted, with energy efficiency taking the second position and air quality moving to third, compared to the 2023 report.
Together, these three form a trio of critical environmental concerns for ports in the region.
Climate change adaptation is increasingly important, with 64% of ports reporting climate-related operational challenges, an increase from 47% last year. Additionally, 73% of ports are working to enhance the resilience of existing infrastructure, while 86% are integrating climate adaptation into new projects.
Notably, water-related port development has maintained its position from last year’s report, continuing to rank among the Top 10 priorities for the second consecutive year.
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