Innovative Simulator Demonstrated during Energy Transition in Ports Course, Driving Sustainable Maritime Solutions

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Barcelona, December 3, 2024 – The Escola Europea has successfully concluded its Energy Transition in Ports: Build Your Port Energy Transition Plan course, organized under the umbrella of the GREEN MARINE MED project, an initiative co-financed by the European Union focused on promoting energy transition plans in Mediterranean ports. The EU funding allowed the course to be fully subsidized, providing an unparalleled opportunity for global industry professionals to engage in advancing sustainability in port operations.

Held from November 18–28, 2024, the hybrid programme combined online learning, immersive in-person workshops, and cutting-edge technology. The course culminated in the practical piloting of the new simulator, developed by the Escola Europea in collaboration with Portwise, which brought intermodal logistics and sustainable strategies to life.

Piloting Innovation: The Simulator

A highlight of the course was the presentation of the prototype of Escola Europea’s Port Energy Transition Simulator, which is currently under development. During the in-person sessions in Barcelona, this innovative tool was used to support the resolution of a practical case study. The simulator provided valuable insights into energy transition planning for ports, and it is expected that in the next edition of the course, the practical case study will be developed entirely using the simulator, offering an even more immersive and comprehensive learning experience.

“This training provided us with important insights into how users interact with the tool and what they expect from it,” said Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea. “These lessons will be instrumental in completing the development of the simulator during the remaining months of the Green Marine Med project, ensuring it is fully aligned with the real needs of ports in their energy transition efforts.”

The Escola Europea has already been successfully using another simulator in its courses— Port Virtual Lab, a tool that gamifies the learning experience by allowing participants to carry out transport operations within a fully virtual port community.

Course Overview and Highlights

The course began with a week of online lectures featuring leading experts in decarbonization, renewable energy, and digitalization for emissions control. The second week, held in Barcelona, offered practical workshops, site visits to key port facilities, and hands-on exercises using the simulator. Participants from over 20 countries joined the training, contributing to its diverse and enriching learning environment. Representatives came from Spain, Italy, Morocco, France, the United States, Sri Lanka, Lebanon, Peru, Mauritania, and the United Kingdom, among others. Esteemed organizations such as MEDports Association, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Port de Barcelona, OCP Solutions, Eurogate Tanger, Ports of Genoa, Fundación Valenciaport, Cellnex Telecom, and the Polytechnic University of Valencia were among those represented. This international and multi-sectoral collaboration added invaluable perspectives, fostering innovative discussions on energy transition strategies and solutions for port operations.

Participants had the opportunity to visit facilities such as container terminals, LNG refuelling sites, hydrogen infrastructure, and OPS (Onshore Power Supply) installations, gaining valuable insights into the latest sustainable technologies transforming the maritime industry.

Empowering Professionals for a Greener Future

As part of the course, participants developed their own Port Energy Transition Plans, blending insights from global experts, practical site visits, and the simulator. These plans aim to address the specific sustainability challenges faced by their ports and organizations. With representatives from more than 10 countries, the course fostered international collaboration and the exchange of best practices. This edition marked a milestone in advancing the goals of the Green Marine Med project.

The Escola Europea plans to build on this success with future editions of the course, offering professionals cutting-edge tools and knowledge to lead the energy transition in ports.

Navigating the Future of Sustainable Ports: An Interview with Alexandre Ariza

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Alexandre Ariza

Alexandre Ariza, Academic Manager of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport

This month, we bring you closer to expert perspectives on environmental transitions in the port and maritime logistics sectors. We had the opportunity to sit down with Alexandre Ariza, the Escola’s Academic Manager and lead on our environmental simulator for ports, to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and strategies for adapting to a greener future.

Q. What trends are you seeing in environmental transitions within the port and maritime logistics sectors?

A: In recent years, there has been a clear shift toward decarbonization in ports and the maritime sector, driven by international regulations and the objectives set by the European Commission’s 2030 Fit for 55 plan and the Green Deal 2050. These initiatives aim for a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050. Key trends include the electrification of port operations, the adoption of alternative fuels such as hydrogen and liquefied natural gas (LNG), and the implementation of digital technologies to optimize energy efficiency.

Another critical aspect of decarbonization, aligned with the European Commission’s strategy, is intermodality. Reducing truck use by maximizing rail and sea highways is essential. Ports are key intermodal hubs, and improving the flow of goods through rail connections and short sea shipping to other ports is crucial. However, one of the major challenges is that there is no clear commitment to a single alternative fuel, and developing multiple options is extremely costly. While technologies like hydrogen are promising, they are still under development, meaning we must start the transition with options that, while not perfect, are more immediately implementable.

Q. What are some of the biggest challenges in making ports greener?

A: One of the biggest challenges is financing the energy transition. The upfront costs of adopting green technologies, such as electrification or alternative fuels, are high, and many port facilities rely on outdated equipment that is difficult to upgrade. Additionally, there is no clear consensus on which alternative fuel will be the standard in the long term. Technologies like hydrogen and ammonia are still in early stages and present technical and economic barriers. However, we cannot wait for perfect solutions; we must begin with currently available technologies.

Furthermore, improving intermodal transport systems is a major challenge. Ports need to optimize their rail and sea connections to minimize truck transport, aligning with the goals of the European Commission. Collaboration across the entire logistics chain and financial incentives will be crucial to achieving these goals without sacrificing operational efficiency.

Q. How can professionals in the industry adapt to these changes?

The transition to more sustainable port operations is a complex process, especially since day-to-day operations remain a priority. Nevertheless, this change is inevitable and represents a costly long-term investment in initiatives such as the circular economy and new fuel supply systems.

A key strategy is to provide continuous training to current professionals, focusing on new energy technologies and their operational implications. Training in the management of refuelling stations for alternative fuels and the logistical planning of green corridors is essential to ensure that professionals can adapt without losing operational efficiency.

Moreover, enhancing intermodal capabilities by improving rail and sea highway connections is crucial. Training professionals to manage these systems effectively and plan for their integration into port operations will be key to achieving more sustainable logistics and reducing the carbon footprint of transportation.

Q: Can you tell us about the realistic game simulations you’re working on under the Green Marine Med Project?

The simulator we are developing under the Green Marine Med Project, in collaboration with PortWise, aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the various variables that influence the strategy for planning an energy transition in a port. Unlike a digital twin, which focuses on analyzing and controlling operational decisions or evaluating real-world scenarios, our simulator enables professionals to grasp how different factors interact and affect the energy transition holistically.

This helps to create more informed and strategic planning, allowing port professionals to identify best practices and anticipate challenges in the transition toward more sustainable operations.

Q: What skills will be important for professionals working in sustainable ports?

In a greener and more sustainable port, key competencies will include a solid understanding of new energy technologies, such as electric systems and alternative fuel management, as well as data analysis skills to optimize operations. Digital competencies, particularly in the use of energy management and monitoring systems, will also be essential.

In addition, the ability to manage energy transition projects and collaborate across sectors with regulators, energy suppliers, and customers will be critical to ensuring a smooth transition to more sustainable operations. Improving intermodal transport systems, such as rail and sea highways, will also require professionals to develop logistics planning skills that align with the EU’s Fit for 55 and Green Deal 2050 objectives.

Mediterranean Green Shipping Network: Linking Ports, Industries, Investment and Innovation for Monitoring and Technology Foresight on Green Shipping in the Mediterranean.

Escola Europea and Portwise sign a collaboration agreement to develop a serious game / simulator on energy transition plans in ports

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Barcelona, August 27, 2024 – The Escola Europea and Portwise have signed an agreement to jointly develop an innovative serious game / simulator as part of the GREEN MARINE MED project, an initiative co-financed by the European Union focused on promoting energy transition plans in Mediterranean ports.

Mediterranean Green Shipping Network: Linking Ports, Industries, Investment and Innovation for Monitoring and Technology Foresight on Green Shipping in the Mediterranean.

The Escola Europea will lead the development of the simulator, while Portwise, with its expertise in terminal logistics consulting and simulation, will provide technical support in calculations and modelling. The objective is to create a simulator that balances realism and simplicity, allowing participants to make strategic decisions in implementing energy transition plans in ports within a competitive and environmentally responsible framework.

This agreement also opens a broader framework for collaboration between both institutions for future projects and training activities in the port, sustainability, and simulation sectors. Both organizations reaffirm their commitment to continuous improvement in the logistics sector and to creating more efficient and environmentally friendly solutions.

The GREEN MARINE MED project unites the Mediterranean Green Shipping Network, representing the full value chain, including vessel communities, ports, marinas, fuel and energy sectors, finance, investment, innovation, and other stakeholders. This Network forms the foundation for a comprehensive Monitoring and Technology Foresight on Mediterranean Green Shipping. Through the project’s unique accelerators and business support programmes, Green Shipping entrepreneurs and start-ups in the region will be empowered. The project has a budget of €1.1 million, with an 80% contribution from the European Union.

Portwise, originally part of TBA Group, is a world leader in consultancy and simulation for terminal logistics, with a focus on global efficiency and sustainability.

This project not only aims to foster learning but also to prepare participants for future challenges in implementing energy transition plans in ports.x

For more information, please contact: Alex Ariza (academicmanager@escolaeuroea.eu).

 

 

 

This project has received funding from the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund under the EMFAF-2023-PIA-FLAGSHIP Call- Agreement No.: 101124818. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. 

Participants of the first Training of Trainers going Digital course of PVL in Tunis - July 2024

Port Virtual Lab takes the Training of Trainers course to new heights

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The special edition of the Training of Trainers: Going Digital course of Port Virtual Lab was recently concluded, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance industry skills and knowledge. The course, held from the 1st to the 4th of July 2024, brought together representatives from leading training centers, providing a platform for in-depth learning and professional development.

Participants of the first Training of Trainers going Digital course of PVL in Tunis - July 2024

During the training, participants engaged with the Port Virtual Lab (PVL) universe and the Click and Cargo platform, gaining a comprehensive understanding of its features and applications. The hands-on sessions enabled attendees to explore the platform’s capabilities in managing port logistics and operations, demonstrating its potential to streamline processes and improve operational efficiency in a simulated environment. It gave them the opportunity to visualise what it would be like to use the tool as an aide in their training centres, and help prepare the students for the real-life operations and challenges of transport operations planning.

A key highlight of the event was the networking opportunities it afforded. Representatives from various training centers and industry professionals exchanged insights, best practices, and innovative ideas, fostering a collaborative environment that is essential for the advancement of the sector. These interactions are expected to lead to stronger partnerships and future collaborations.

The course also featured expert-led discussions and practical exercises designed to equip participants with the skills necessary to implement the PVL platform in their respective organisations. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the detailed and practical nature of the training.

Looking forward, the Escola Europea is committed to organising more training sessions that will further promote the adoption of innovative tools like the the PVL platform. These future courses will continue to support industry professionals in staying ahead of technological advancements, thereby contributing to the overall growth and modernisation of port logistics.

Check out the video summarising the highlights of the course, and get in touch if you’d like to know more about the platform and it’s capabilities:

PLIKA’s First Annual Event at SIL Strengthens Global Connections in Logistics

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On the 6th of June 2024, from 17:30 to 19:00, the first annual event of PLIKA – Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy took place at the SIL Conference, representing a major advancement in the logistics and international trade sector. The event, which was held in a hybrid format, offered a platform for introducing the core values of PLIKA, presenting the newly formed committees, and highlighting the Board directors and training centre’s commitment to fostering the exchange of knowledge and experiences.

The event began with a warm welcome and inspiring words from the President, Eduard Rodés, the director of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, who highlighted PLIKA’s mission and the bright prospects for this community. His address was complemented by supportive messages from Vice President Ana Rumbeu, the director of training at the Valenciaport Foundation, and Vice President Alaa Morsy, Dean at the Port Training Institute and Maritime Research and Consultation Center, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport. Their enthusiasm and dedication were evident, setting an inspiring precedent for the discussions that followed. “Seeing the enthusiasm and commitment of our founding members at this inaugural event fills me with immense pride. PLIKA is not just a network; it is a family united by a shared vision of a brighter future for logistics education and innovation,” commented Eduard Rodés as the festivities ended.

A key highlight of the event was the introduction of PLIKA’s esteemed founding and regular members. These include prominent figures such as Ms. Taheya Elsherbeny (Port Training Institute, AASTMT), Mr. Rami Seeman, Ms. Marta Miquel (Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport), Ms. Valeria Munar (Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport), Mr. Ramon Van Hall (STC Group), and Mr. Pim Oosterhoff (STC Group). Other notable members introduced were Mr. Adam Daoud from Saudi Logistics Academy, Mr. José Antonio Vásquez and Ms. Àngels Vives Serra from ILB, Mr. Jordi Font and Ms. Marisa Clavero from the Lluisa-Cura Institute, Mr. Elwyn Pitt from GMLS, Mr. Rabih Sabra from the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Beirut & Mount Lebanon, Ms. Lidia Slawinska from the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, and their dedicated PLIKERS. These individuals and their teams showed their commitment to a brighter future for the sector.

The formation of various committees dedicated to different aspects of logistics and trade was also a significant agenda of the event. These committees—Promotion, Membership, Employment, Innovation, Technological, and Academic—are set to play a crucial role in building this resilient educational collaborative network that aims to revolutionise the industry.

This inaugural event has clearly opened the doors to greater unity and collaboration among diverse participants in the sector. It provided a unique opportunity for attendees to connect, share ideas, and lay the groundwork for a strong, cooperative community. The positive outcomes and hopeful prospects resulting from this initiative have sparked curiosity and anticipation about the future steps of this collaborative educational platform.

Looking ahead, the results and aspirations stemming from this first event are very encouraging. PLIKA aims to become a cornerstone in the educational landscape of logistics and international trade, fostering a community that thrives on shared knowledge and mutual support for growth and improvement.

Port Virtual Lab Transforms South African Students into Logistics Experts through a pilot course

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Port Virtual Lab (PVL), in its ongoing mission to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, proudly announces the successful conclusion of another pilot course aimed at training future logistics experts, this time for 18 students from Global Maritime Legal Solutions (GMLS), South Africa, thanks to the generous economic support of the international company Savino del Bene. Throughout April, these young visionaries, aged between 18 to 30, delved into the complexities of international logistics through a comprehensive virtual programme spanning three weeks.

Structured around a diverse curriculum, the course zeroed in on critical aspects of logistics such as port-logistics communities, delivery contracts, and operations, with a particular focus on electronic documentation, market research, and strategic packaging planning. Students were also introduced to the critical legal frameworks of Incoterms and the SAD document, equipping them with the theoretical skills they needed to complete the second part of the training – through a simulated port community environment.

PVL takes teaching a step beyond traditional learning. The course’s hallmark was its dynamic, simulated port community where students were able to collaboratively work in teams to plan international door-to-door logistics operations. The PVL environment encompasses 23 simulated companies, allowing students to assume vital roles in the logistics chain, from freight forwarders to operations managers.

Thanks to ERP software developed by Click&Cargo, the course can offer hands-on experience in maritime and airfreight operations, tariff classification, and export management. Such interactive learning journey extends beyond simple logistics; it fosters a deep understanding of economic principles within the context of global trade. By navigating real-time scenarios, the GMLS students could hone their problem-solving skills and acquired the analytical acumen necessary for impactful decision-making.

‘What an amazing project this has been! I am deeply grateful to Escola and the entire team. My numerous questions were met with patience, grace, and honesty. The presentations had a profound impact, and I valued the opportunity to share a space with the system designers, lawmakers, and environmental leaders. I would gladly repeat this experience,’ said Cynthia Thandeka Magagula, a student from GMLS. The course earned an impressive average evaluation rating of 4.88 out of 5 from the participants, underscoring their high level of satisfaction.

Looking to the future, PVL remains committed to providing education that links academic theory with practical industry skills. The course’s success with the GMLS students demonstrates the effectiveness of PVL’s approach and its ability to establish valuable educational partnerships. GMLS now joins the ranks of the University of Barcelona, STC Netherlands, and the Saudi Logistics Academy in partnering with PVL to offer pilot courses that focus on virtual and experiential learning that are closely aligned with industry requirements.

PVL continues to welcome collaboration with industry professionals, educational institutions, and students. Each course aims to set new benchmarks for hands-on learning in the logistics and transportation sectors.

The Escola Europea Celebrates Strategic Partnership in Nouakchott, Mauritania

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This strategic partnership signifies a pivotal moment in enhancing cooperation and reinforcing maritime transport and logistics ties between Europe and Africa for the Escola and its partners.

From left to right, Abdelatif Lhouaoui ANP, Sidi Mohamed Maham, representing the Friendship Port of Nouakchott, and Eduard Rodés from the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport

In a symbolically charged ceremony, Mr. Sidi Mohamed Maham, on behalf of the Friendship Port of Nouakchott (Le Port de l’Amitié de Nouakchott – PANPA), Mr. Abdelatif Lhouaoui representing the National Ports Agency of Morocco (Agence Nationale des Ports – ANP), and Mr. Eduard Rodés, director of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, have forged a tripartite agreement. This agreement aims to be a catalyst for enhancing international trade education, logistics and port operations, as well as education and management in the region, aligning their efforts with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

The initiative, named “Mare Nostrum Atlantique,” underscores the critical role of quality education, the creation of respectable employment opportunities, and the promotion of sustainable economic growth. It prioritizes vocational training in logistics and international trade and actively encourages the sharing of knowledge and best practices among port communities.

The agreement’s signing was further highlighted by the presence and contribution of Mr. Jordi Torrent, Secretary-General of the MEDports Association. His remarks underscored the significance of a collaborative protocol between three association members, setting a new benchmark for collective commitment to excellence and innovation in port and logistics services.

The Escola brings to the table its extensive expertise in specialized training and skill development, ensuring port staff remain at the cutting edge of industry innovations and technologies.

This agreement marks a significant step forward in fostering a stronger and more effective partnership between the parties, with a shared aim of promoting economic growth and environmental sustainability in their respective regions.

Port Virtual Lab continues to bridge knowledge and practical application in international logistics

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PVL welcomes the Saudi Logistics Academy and ITS La Spezia among its collaborators

Port Virtual Lab (PVL), has launched comprehensive trainings designed to hone the skills of students in the intricate world of international logistics and transportation operations this past week, bridging the gap between knowledge and practical applications of the industries. The two separate pilot courses have been designed for students coming from ITS La Spezia in Italy and the Saudi Logistics Academy. The former will begin on the 25th of January and continue until the 15th of March, whereas the latter has launched this past Monday on the 22nd of January, and will continue until the 28th of February. The sessions will be held over eight weeks with half-day instruction, marking a significant step in the practical education of future logistics professionals. These courses aim to test and pilot the concept that came out of the Escola’s participation in the European YEP MED project, which finalised in December of 2023. By providing students with hands-on training in international logistics and transportation operations through a simulated environment offered by Port Virtual Lab (PVL), we aim to refine and enhance the practical applications of the innovative ideas developed during the European project.

Empowering the Next Generation of Logistics Experts

Over the next few weeks, participants will engage in an immersive learning environment that spans the full spectrum of the supply chain. Adopting roles within the platform’s extensive range of simulated companies, students will experience first-hand the operations of freight forwarders, whilst interacting with simulated shipping and airline companies, road transport, railways, and port terminals in a controlled and realistic environment within the platform. 

The course’s strategic objectives are threefold: to provide a simulated environment for participants to sharpen their logistics and transportation skills, to foster autonomous development in solving real-world problems, and to deepen understanding of economic principles within the context of international trade.

A Deep Dive into Real-World Simulations

Port Virtual Lab (PVL), a cutting-edge educational resource, serves as the backdrop for this advanced training programme. PVL encompasses a platform that holds 23 simulated companies within a digital port community system. The course includes a pioneering freight forwarder module developed with Click&Cargo, which offers participants near-real-life operation simulations of import and export operations.

The benefits of such simulation in training are profound. They offer real-time practice, diverse scenarios for robust problem-solving, and opportunities to test different transport combinations. These simulations allow participants to balance sustainability with the need for speed, a crucial skill in today’s fast-paced, eco-conscious market.

Through PVL’s immersive simulations, students can translate theoretical knowledge into practical expertise. They get challenged to navigate unforeseen circumstances, incidents, and conflicts that arise from the dynamics of a company’s interactions with customers and suppliers. This experience is invaluable in developing a responsible and proactive approach to decision-making.

The training also emphasizes the application of economic analysis to international trade, a critical aspect of the global market. Students will learn to identify the benefits and constraints of how global markets operate, equipping them with the analytical skills necessary for strategic decision-making in international logistics.

Looking Ahead

Port Virtual Lab courses are more than just a training programme; they serve as a bridge to the future of logistics education. By merging real-world scenarios with state-of-the-art simulation technology, PVL is setting a new standard for experiential learning. The course is not only equipping participants with the necessary tools to excel in the logistics and transportation sectors but also aims to instil a keen understanding of the global trade mechanisms and the versatility required to adapt to its ever-changing landscape.

PVL invites industry professionals, educational institutions, and students to continue this journey of discovery and professional development. The success of this course is a testament to the collaborative effort between PVL, ITS La Spezia, and the Saudi Logistics Academy, and serves as a call to action for other organisations to join in shaping the future of logistics training.

The lab is constantly evolving, with new simulations and modules being developed to mirror the latest industry trends and technologies. Those interested in being at the forefront of logistics innovation are encouraged to get involved. Whether it’s to prepare for the challenges of tomorrow, to engage with a network of like-minded professionals, or to contribute to the evolution of the logistics sector, PVL remains your premier partner in professional growth.

Escola’s Success in Reaching IAPH Sustainability Awards Finals Speaks Volumes

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As the year draws to a close, we are reflecting on an incredible journey that took us to the heart of recognition on a global stage. Our nomination as a finalist in the prestigious IAPH Sustainability Awards has marked a pivotal moment in our pursuit of sustainability and community building.

From the outset, our dedication to fostering sustainable communities has been unwavering. The recognition bestowed upon us as a Top-3 finalist in the “Community Building” category with the YEP MED project – co-funded by the European Union – among a competitive field of international projects is a testament to our commitment and innovative approaches.

In the photo: Akram Soliman (Arab Academy), Eduard Rodés (Escola Europea) and Alaa Morsy (Arab Academy) during the IAPH Sustainability Awards

While the announcement of the winners during the World Ports Conference Gala didn’t place us atop the podium this time, our journey to the finals stands as a resounding achievement. The accolades and acknowledgment received for our efforts in sustainability and community development reinforce the significance of our work – which also further culminated with our director being awarded the prestigious Mediterranean Award by ACASME during the MedaWeek conference in Barcelona last month.

The projects celebrated during the awards represent ground-breaking initiatives from various corners of the globe, each contributing uniquely to the cause of sustainability.

We extend our congratulations to the deserving winners whose remarkable projects have made substantial impacts in their respective categories.

For the Escola, being among the top contenders emphasizes the value of our endeavours and fuels our drive to continue making strides in sustainability and community development. This recognition underscores the dedication of our team and partners, whose unwavering support and relentless pursuit of excellence have propelled us to this stage.

As we bid farewell to 2023, we do so with immense pride in our accomplishments. While this year may be coming to an end, our journey toward a more sustainable and inclusive future is an ongoing commitment. We eagerly anticipate the opportunities that lie ahead in the coming year, poised to embark on new initiatives and collaborations that will further our mission.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been part of our journey, supporting and encouraging us along the way. Your belief in our vision and commitment to sustainability fuels our determination to continue making a meaningful difference.

Here’s to a remarkable 2023 and an even more promising 2024 as we forge ahead in our pursuit of sustainability and community building.

Final Conference of the TECHLOG project Highlights Achievements and Innovations in Mediterranean Logistics

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The TECHLOG Final Conference, hosted at the University of Cagliari, Italy, on December 1st, marked the culmination of 30 months of dedicated efforts within the ENI CBC MED – EU co-financed project aimed at advancing Technological Transfer for Logistics Innovation in the Mediterranean area. With a robust attendance of over 73 participants, the event showcased the project’s milestones, outputs, and profound impact on the regional logistics sector.

The conference commenced with esteemed speakers extending institutional greetings to the attendees. Notable figures included Francesco Mola, Rector of the University of Cagliari; Ada Lai, Counsellor for Labour, Vocational Training, Cooperation, and Social Security of the Sardinia Region; Massimo Deiana, President of the Sardinian Ports’ Authority; and Fabio Mereu from the Chamber of Commerce of Cagliari, who also served as the delegate of ASCAME, the Association of the Mediterranean Chambers of Commerce.

Marco Melis, Director General of the ENI CBC MED Programme, Autonomous Region of Sardinia, delivered a comprehensive presentation, setting the tone for the conference and emphasizing the significance of ENI CBC MED projects in fostering collaboration and innovation within the Mediterranean region.

The heart of the conference featured two engaging roundtable discussions. The first focused on TECHLOG’s scientific results, with active participation from project partners representing the 5 participating countries Italy, Egypt, Spain, Lebanon and Tunisia. The roundtable covered topics including capacity building, agreements, and pilot actions in the Mediterranean area, featuring video presentations showcasing project results and interviews with crane and truck operators.

The second roundtable explored New Scenarios of the EURO-Mediterranean Transport Sector, offering insights into the evolving industry landscape. Moderated by Morena Pivetti, a transport and logistics journalist, the discussion included external stakeholders and industry experts from around the Mediterranean region, such as Vittorio Marzano, Professor at Federico II Naples University, Euan Lonmon – Board Member at GRENDI Group, Dr. Alaa Ezz – Secretary-General of the Confederation of Egyptian European Business Associations, Naima Zamoum – Business Development Manager Africa Trade Lane at CEVA Logistics  and Ummuhan Bardak – Senior Human Capital Development Expert – Skills Demand Analysis – European Training Foundation.

Audience members actively engaged in a dynamic questions & answers session, enriching the discussions and facilitating knowledge exchange. As TECHLOG enters its final month of the 30-month implementation period, the conference provided a valuable platform to reflect on the project’s impact and set the stage for future collaborations in the fields of logistics and technology.

TECHLOG (Technological Transfer for Logistics Innovation in the Mediterranean area) is an EU co-financed project with a duration of 30 months and a total budget of €3.4 million, of which €3.1 million (90%) is funded by the European Union. The project partners include the University of Cagliari in Italy (Lead beneficiary), the Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Crafts, and Agriculture of Maremma and Tirreno (Italy), the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (Egypt), the European School of Short Shipping, EEIG (Spain), the Confederation of Egyptian European Business Associations (Egypt), the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Beirut and Mount Lebanon (Lebanon), the Egyptian Chamber of Commerce in Alexandria (Egypt), the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Sfax (Tunisia), and Sfax University (Tunisia).

For more information about TECHLOG, please visit: https://linktr.ee/techlog_project