Blockchain-Powered Incentive System for JIT Arrival Operations and Decarbonization in Maritime Shipping

Abstract

Efficiency and sustainability are undisputedly the most critical objectives for modern ports. Current exercises for port services still lack performance profiling for arriving vessels regarding their arrival punctuality and compliance with port resource schedule for Just-in-time (JIT) service, as well as their efforts contributing towards less emission through reduced turnaround time within port. As a result, a performance-based incentive is missing. Bringing in the incentive component may facilitate the objectives of achieving both port efficiency and sustainability. Blockchain technology, owning to its intrinsic features like immutability, traceability, governance and provenance, and in-built tokens (for most public chain platforms), allow for the establishment of system solutions to record key performance indicators (KPIs) and distribute incentives to good performers. This paper is the first to propose a blockchain-based system to incentivize JIT and green operations in ports. The platform system design and operating mechanisms are elaborated in detail, and a prototype system has been implemented based on the Solana blockchain to demonstrate the core features. The current system’s potential is substantial, considering the industry’s increasing awareness about its environmental footprint. Continuous developments can be facilitated by connecting to market-based measures such as carbon pricing and emission trading in the maritime sector.