Advancing Energy Transition in the Port Sector: Insights from the EUSAIR Thematic Workshop in Trieste
The workshop titled “Connecting the Adriatic-Ionian Region through Advanced Technology and Training for the Energy Transition in the Port Sector” took place in Trieste on 28th November 2024 and it was jointly organized by the Central European Initiative (CEI) and by the Friuli Venezia Giulia Autonomous Region in the framework of the EUSAIR Pillar 2 “Connecting the Region” thematic events for 2024, with the interventions of the Councillor for Environment and Energy of Friuli Venezia Giulia Autonomous Region Mr. Fabio Scoccimarro and of Pillar 2 Coordinator on Transport Mr. Pierluigi Coppola.
With the participation of some of the representatives of so-called NAPA Ports (Association of Nord Adriatic Ports), this event brought together over 60 participants from the area of northern Adriatic Sea and the broader Adriatic-Ionian Region, including, policymakers, researchers, industry experts and territorial stakeholders.
The workshop highlighted the pivotal role of advanced technology and training in fostering a sustainable and competitive maritime economy. The agenda featured high-level contributions from distinguished speakers, exploring innovative solutions to enhance the adoption of green technologies and digitalization, as well as the development of specialized skills to support this transformation.
Intensive training programs and initiatives on green skills were proposed to align efforts across the Adriatic-Ionian region. In this perspective, Pillar 2 Coordinator highlighted a possible cross-cutting future cooperation between EUSAIR Pillar 2 and the newly established Pillar 5 (Social Pillar), to develop joint actions to enhance green and digital skillsets in response to the evolving demands of the maritime-port sector. By fostering collaboration among ports, training institutions, and stakeholders, these initiatives could act as a catalyst for workforce transformation, supporting the goals of the European Green Deal and the Pact for Skills.
Following the round table discussion, a common willingness was shared to turn the ideas generated into actionable projects and partnerships, reinforcing the role of the Adriatic-Ionian Region as a leader in maritime sustainability. Participants provided valuable inputs to drive forward initiatives that integrate advanced technology, foster skill development, and promote the decarbonization of port operations.
The CEI and Friuli Venezia Giulia Autonomous Region expressed their gratitude to all speakers, participants and partners for their active engagement and contribution to the success of this workshop, which represents “the first step” to foster the discussion in order to highlight main elements and common objectives for developing the energy transition in the AI Port System.
