A Framework for Accurate Carbon Footprint Calculation in Seaports: Methodology Proposal

Abstract

According to the 2020 European Sea Ports Organization Environmental Report, ports are the second biggest environmental concern for climate change due to greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the International Association of Ports and Harbors determined that seaports are carbon-intensive and environmentally harmful because of increased commercial and non-commercial activities surrounding them. Due to the urgent concern to address solutions in this research line, this study aims to present a frame of reference to estimate the Carbon Footprint in ports through an innovative method. The study design presents a Meta-Analyses Scoping Review based on the PRISMA-ScR methodology to analyse the current articles, normativity and primary resources related to the Carbon Footprint estimation approach in seaports. Then, a categorization for the new method of Carbon Footprint and scopes description calculation is presented. Besides, the Port of Valencia, a famous Spanish port, provides the case study to apply and confirm the approach. Findings state that this new approach, with the designation of new boundaries and factors affecting ports’ emissions would lead to an accurate estimation of the carbon footprint of ports. The originality and value of this work-study deliver scientific interpretations, reflections, and suggestions for future research and validation.