#DidYouKnow: Why Paper-Based Processes Are Becoming Obsolete in Logistics

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For decades, logistics and global trade have relied on paper-based documentation to facilitate transactions, track shipments, and ensure compliance. Bills of lading, customs declarations, and consignment notes have traditionally been printed, signed, and manually processed at various checkpoints along the supply chain. However, in an era of digital transformation, paper-based processes are proving to be inefficient, error-prone, and unsustainable.

The shift toward electronic documentation (e-documentation) is not just a technological upgrade—it is a necessity for businesses looking to remain competitive in a fast-evolving global trade environment.

The Case for Digital Documentation

According to the World Economic Forum, the adoption of e-documentation can:

  • Cut customs clearance times by 50%, reducing delays at ports and borders.
  • Reduce errors by 80%, minimizing costly mistakes in manual data entry and verification.

These figures highlight the urgency for companies to transition away from traditional documentation methods and embrace digital solutions that improve operational efficiency.

The Role of E-Bill of Lading & E-CMR

Among the most significant advancements in digital trade documentation are the electronic Bill of Lading (e-BL) and electronic Consignment Note (e-CMR). These digital alternatives to paper-based shipping documents offer numerous benefits:

  • Faster Processing: Digital documents can be transmitted instantly across stakeholders, eliminating waiting times for physical paperwork.
  • Enhanced Accuracy: Automated data entry and validation reduce the risk of errors caused by manual processing.
  • Greater Security: Digital documents are encrypted and tracked, reducing the risk of fraud or loss.
  • Regulatory Compliance: More governments and trade organizations are recognizing and supporting e-documentation as part of international trade agreements.
  • Sustainability: A reduction in paper use contributes to environmental sustainability goals, aligning logistics practices with corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Integration and the Future of Trade Documentation

Transitioning to digital documentation is no longer just a competitive advantage—it is becoming an industry standard. Governments and trade organizations are increasingly pushing for the adoption of paperless trade solutions, including blockchain-based documentation systems that provide immutable records of transactions.

Despite these advantages, many companies still hesitate to fully transition due to concerns about regulatory acceptance, technological infrastructure, and integration with existing systems. However, those that fail to modernize risk falling behind as industry leaders push forward with digital transformation initiatives.

Conclusion

The logistics industry is at a turning point where traditional paper-based documentation is rapidly becoming obsolete. The efficiency, accuracy, and security of e-documentation provide undeniable benefits for businesses navigating today’s complex trade environment. With customs clearance times reduced by half and errors cut by 80%, the shift toward digital is no longer just an option—it is an imperative.

As technology continues to evolve, logistics professionals must stay ahead of the curve, embracing e-Bill of Lading, e-CMR, and other digital solutions that will define the future of global trade. The question is no longer if companies will adopt digital documentation, but how quickly they can do so to remain competitive in a rapidly modernizing industry.

Sources

NOTE: this article was written with the help of AI

Escola Europea and The Propeller Club Barcelona Renew Partnership for Maritime Training

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A decade of collaboration to strengthen industry-education links and prepare future logistics professionals

The Escola Europea and The Propeller Club of Barcelona have renewed their long-standing partnership to continue supporting maritime and logistics training through the “Vine al Port” programme. This marks ten years of collaboration since the launch of Forma’t al Port, a key initiative that has helped bridge the gap between education and industry in the Port of Barcelona.

The renewed agreement, signed by Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea, and Gonzalo Sanchis, President of The Propeller Club Barcelona, reinforces the shared commitment to fostering talent, enhancing industry knowledge, and promoting professional development within the logistics and port sectors.

Key Highlights of the Renewal

The Propeller Club will continue to support “Vine al Port” and its core initiatives, including:

  • Forma’t al Port – Practical training workshops for logistics and maritime students.
  • Aprenem Junts – Industry internships for teachers to gain hands-on experience.
  • Talent Programme – Connecting students with career opportunities in the sector.
  • Benvingut al Port – Induction sessions for new professionals joining the port community.

Additionally, The Propeller Club will contribute €2,000 annually in student scholarships over the next three years to facilitate participation in these training programmes.

A Continued Commitment to Industry-Education Collaboration

Since its inception, Forma’t al Port has provided thousands of students with first-hand insights into port operations, intermodal transport, and logistics management, helping to shape the next generation of maritime professionals.

“This renewal reaffirms our joint mission to equip young professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the logistics and maritime sectors,” said Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea. “Over the past decade, The Propeller Club has been a key partner in making this possible, and we are excited to continue working together to strengthen industry-education links.”

With this agreement, Escola Europea and The Propeller Club Barcelona reinforce their role in developing talent and supporting the future of the port and logistics industries.

Stay tuned for upcoming activities and opportunities under the “Vine al Port” programme!

Port Virtual Lab (PVL) recognized by the European Commission as a key simulation-based training programme

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Port Virtual Lab recognized by the European Commission as a key simulation-based training program for developing competencies in the blue economy

 

Port Virtual Lab (PVL) has been highlighted as a best practice in blue skills training in the Study to Support and Design Skills Development in the Blue Economy, commissioned by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE) and CINEA. The study identifies PVL as an innovative, technology–driven, and practical learning tool crucial for developing competencies in the blue economy.

Currently in its pilot phase, PVL is refining and expanding its training capabilities through hands-on collaboration with academic institutions and industry partners. Developed by Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, the platform provides an advanced digital learning environment where participants can simulate and solve complex logistics challenges. This methodology fosters an immersive approach to learning, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.

The study underscores the increasing importance of simulation-based training in enhancing blue skills development. These innovative approaches create realistic, interactive scenarios that replicate actual industry conditions, improving decision-making and problem-solving abilities. Furthermore, gamification, blended learning, and e-learning platforms were identified as crucial elements in modern training programs. PVL integrates these methods by offering modular and flexible learning experiences, accommodating the needs of students, professionals, and industry stakeholders alike.

By combining simulation-based training with strong academia-industry collaboration, Port Virtual Lab plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of maritime and logistics professionals. As PVL progresses through its pilot phase, participating institutions have the unique opportunity to be early adopters, helping shape the platform’s development while benefiting from an exclusive introductory experience.

Escola Europea Expands Mediterranean Training and Digital Innovation at MARLOG-14

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The Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport played an active role in MARLOG-14, the International Maritime and Logistics Conference held in Alexandria, Egypt, bringing its expertise in digital innovation, virtual learning and intermodal logistics training to the global stage.

Representing the Escola, Director Eduard Rodés engaged in insightful discussions with key industry figures and policymakers, including a meeting with the President of the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT). Their discussions explored future collaborations in maritime education and training, reinforcing the shared mission of advancing logistics knowledge and fostering innovation within the sector.

A key moment of the conference was the presentation of Port Virtual Lab (PVL), the Escola’s groundbreaking digital learning platform designed to enhance training for logistics and maritime professionals. For the first time, PVL’s exclusive training catalogue was piloted, allowing conference attendees to explore the methodology and vision behind the immersive learning platform.

During the event, the Escola also strengthened its ties with the Port Training Institute (PTI) through meetings with Alaa Morsy, fostering discussions on expanding collaboration between PTI and PVL. This growing partnership aims to integrate innovative training methodologies and digital learning solutions into PTI’s educational framework, reinforcing a shared vision for the future of maritime and logistics training in the region. During the meeting, PTI also signed on to become an ambassador of the Port Virtual Lab platform – committing to promoting and representing the platform in the Middle East.

“Port Virtual Lab is more than just a simulator—it is a tool that bridges the gap between theory and practice, allowing students and professionals to engage with real-world logistics scenarios in a controlled environment,” said Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea. “By showcasing PVL at MARLOG-14, we are demonstrating its potential to transform how logistics education is delivered, making it more accessible, flexible, and practical for professionals worldwide.”

Beyond PVL, the Escola’s commitment to innovation was further emphasized through the Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy (PLIKA). As part of the conference’s parallel events, PLIKA, under the presidency of Eduard Rodés, organized a highly successful Hackathon, bringing together students and professionals to tackle real-world logistics challenges. This hands-on initiative highlighted the role of collaborative problem-solving in shaping the future of port and transport operations.

Additionally, the MEDports Promotion Committee convened during MARLOG-14, bringing together representatives from Mediterranean ports to discuss strategies for promoting sustainable maritime development and training initiatives. As an active member of MEDports, the Escola continues to support regional cooperation and capacity-building efforts that enhance the competitiveness and digitalization of Mediterranean port operations.

With its participation in MARLOG-14, the Escola Europea reaffirmed its position as a leader in intermodal logistics training, digital education, and industry and digital innovation. The connections and insights gained during the conference will further strengthen the Escola’s role in driving sustainable and technology-driven advancements in port logistics and supply chain management.

Escola awards the Areté Excellence distinction to Antonio Pedevilla of Grandi Navi Veloci

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In an emotional ceremony held at the headquarters of the Port Authority of Barcelona, Antonio Pedevilla, a member of the Escola Europea’s executive board for 18 years and a key figure in the maritime sector, received the Areté Excellence distinction. This award recognises the dedication, commitment, and efforts of individuals who have contributed to the growth and development of the Escola Europea.

The award was presented by José Alberto Carbonell, president of the Port of Barcelona and the Escola Europea, in the presence of Eduard Rodés, director of the Escola; Matteo de Candia, director of GNV Spain and successor to Antonio Pedevilla on the executive board; Simone Del Vecchio, also from GNV; and Marta Miquel from the Escola Europea.

In addition to being one of the driving forces behind the Escola’s first training courses, Antonio Pedevilla stood out as a professor and ambassador of the organisation, working closely with Grandi Navi Veloci under the presidencies of Aldo Grimaldi, Roberto Martinoli, and Matteo Catani. His work was essential in facilitating the delivery of courses onboard GNV vessels, making him a key figure in the Escola’s internationalisation efforts in Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco, and contributing to the success of its training programmes.

During the ceremony, Eduard Rodés stated: “With our gratitude, recognition, and friendship, we hope Antonio receives this distinction with the same affection with which we present it today. His legacy will continue to inspire those of us who are part of this great family.”

The event also marked the beginning of a new chapter with the appointment of Matteo de Candia to the Escola Europea’s executive board, further strengthening Grandi Navi Veloci’s commitment to education in the port logistics sector.

It is worth noting that previous recipients of this prestigious award include Joaquim Coello (founding president), Aldo Grimaldi (president of GNV – in memoriam), Luigi Ranauro (founding board member representing Grimaldi), Sixte Cambra (president of the Port of Barcelona), and José Anselmo Laranjeira (DG-MOVE of the European Union).

With this distinction, the Escola Europea reaffirms its mission to recognise and honour individuals who, through their dedication, drive excellence and sustainability in logistics and intermodal transport.

Butransa renews its agreement with the Escola Europea for the Forma’t al Port programme

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Butransa, a leading company in the transport and logistics sector, has renewed its collaboration agreement with the Escola Europea to continue funding the Forma’t al Port programme. This partnership, originally signed in 2018, reaffirms Butransa’s commitment to training and developing future professionals in transport, logistics, and international trade, while also allowing the company to identify and attract top talent.

The Forma’t al Port programme, promoted by the Training and Employment Working Group of the Executive Council and led by the Escola Europea, aims to provide students with the necessary tools and knowledge to understand and navigate the reality of the port logistics sector. Since its creation in 2015, ten years ago, the programme has contributed to the training of hundreds of young professionals, establishing itself as a key initiative in supporting emerging talent in the sector.

This year, the Escola Europea is introducing an innovative improvement to the selection and evaluation process: students starting their internships in 2025 will receive a Predictive Index report, a tool that generates a detailed behavioural profile of candidates. This will allow sponsoring companies, such as Butransa, to access both the CVs of interns and their behavioural profiles, helping to identify the most suitable candidates for internships and potential employment, anticipating the evolving needs of the job market.

With this renewed agreement, Butransa strengthens its commitment to the development of both local and international talent, consolidating its position as a company dedicated to training and preparing the next generation of transport and logistics professionals.

About Butransa
Butransa is a leading company in the transport and logistics sector, with a long track record of innovation and excellence. It offers tailored solutions and efficient supply chain management.

GOING DIGITAL: Transforming International Trade Operations with Advanced Training

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The Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, in collaboration with FETEIA, has launched the GOING DIGITAL program: a training initiative designed to prepare international trade professionals, freight forwarders, and logistics operators in advanced digitalization and innovation tools. The course, delivered online from April 7 to 11, 2025, promises to revolutionize the management of logistics operations in an increasingly connected world.

In the photo (from left to right): Eduard Rodés (EEIT), Enric Ticó (FETEIA), Blanca Guitart (FETEIA), and Marta Miquel (EEIT)

With a total duration of 25 hours spread over five days, this program offers a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience that equips participants to tackle the challenges of international trade using the most advanced digital tools available.

With GOING DIGITAL, the Escola Europea and FETEIA reinforce their commitment to leading the digital transformation of international trade, preparing professionals for a more connected and efficient future.

What will you learn in this training?

GOING DIGITAL combines theoretical and practical approaches grounded in constructivist philosophy, enabling participants to take charge of their learning. Through meaningful experiences and collaborative activities, attendees will acquire key competencies in digitalization, process optimization, and digital tool management.

Participants will learn to apply theoretical concepts in practical scenarios, building knowledge actively and adapting it to the challenges of international trade.

The main goals of the training include:

  • Digital competence: Equipping professionals with skills to excel in a competitive, constantly evolving global market.
  • Operational optimization: Promoting the use of digital tools to enhance efficiency and reduce execution times.
  • Strategic innovation: Providing practical knowledge to implement new technologies in daily operations.

During the course, attendees will learn to:

  • Promote the use of advanced digital tools, such as electronic documents, to optimize logistics processes.
  • Use cutting-edge ERP systems to improve supply chain integration and management.
  • Make strategic decisions based on data and simulations to strengthen global competitiveness.
  • Implement technological innovations to optimize costs and improve information flow in the logistics chain.

According to Eduard Rodés, director of the Escola Europea:

“‘Going Digital’ is more than a course; it’s a bridge to the future. Participants work with digital tools to manage real disruptions, like strikes or conflicts, while integrating sustainable strategies into their decision-making. It’s about mastering the skills needed for a smooth digital transition and sustainable global operations.”

Program Structure

The course is structured into five daily sessions, each lasting five hours, and covers the following topics:

  1. Introduction to Digitalization: Essential knowledge on electronic documents like the e-Bill of Lading and e-CMR.
  2. Context of Digitalization in International Trade: Its impact on logistics and operations.
  3. Simulations and Case Studies: Using the Port Virtual Lab (PVL) to simulate export, import, and air operations.
  4. Real-World Problem Solving: Advanced digital tools for addressing challenges.
  5. Teamwork and Strategic Analysis: Collaborative strategies to optimize operations and identify opportunities to implement disruptive technologies.

At the end of the training, participants will present their practical case study results and receive a certificate endorsed by FETEIA and the Escola Europea.

Price and Exclusive Benefits for FETEIA Members

The program costs €550 per person. FETEIA members enjoy an exclusive discount of €100, reaffirming the commitment of both organizations to ongoing education and professional development in the logistics sector.

Port Virtual Lab: A Key Training Tool

The GOING DIGITAL program stands out for its integration of the Port Virtual Lab (PVL), a training platform developed by the Escola Europea. This innovative tool has trained over 3,500 professionals across the Mediterranean, Europe, the Middle East, and South Africa. It enables participants to:

  • Immerse themselves in real-world international trade and logistics scenarios.
  • Develop critical skills in a safe, controlled environment.
  • Solve practical cases simulating industry challenges.

The PVL is widely recognized for connecting professionals from various countries and promoting effective, practical learning aligned with the latest digitalization trends.

A Program Designed by Experts

The program also includes contributions from renowned specialists in the digital and logistics sectors, providing innovative and practical insights to transform operations and strengthen participants’ digital competencies.

Why Choose GOING DIGITAL?

In a global logistics environment that’s becoming increasingly complex, GOING DIGITAL offers a unique opportunity to:

  • Enhance operational efficiency by adopting digital tools and innovative strategies.
  • Boost competitiveness with advanced skills to stand out in the global market.
  • Strengthen adaptability by preparing professionals for the challenges of digitalization in a constantly evolving sector.

This program is designed for professionals aiming to enhance their skills and companies looking to optimize operations and remain at the forefront of the industry.

Contact Information

For registrations and more information about the program:
Website: www.escolaeuropea.eu
Phone: (+34) 93 298 6070
Email: [email protected]
Social Media: @pvl-one | @escolaeuropeaeu

Catalyzing Systemic Change: A Conversation with HACC’s Co-founder & CEO on Accelerating the Clean Energy Transition

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Allyson Browne, Co-founder & CEO High Ambition Climate Collective (HACC)

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Allyson Browne, Co-founder and CEO of the High Ambition Climate Collective (HACC), to discuss how this innovative nonprofit is driving progress at pivotal energy crossroads—especially maritime ports—to catalyze global climate action. From aligning policymakers, industry partners, and community leaders to equipping them with the tools to tackle systemic challenges, Allyson sheds light on HACC’s bold vision for accelerating the clean energy transition, overcoming policy and infrastructure hurdles, and shaping a sustainable, equitable future for the transport sector and beyond.

 

Can you tell us about the High Ambition Climate Collective (HACC) and its mission? What inspired you to create this organisation, and what are its main areas of focus?

I’ve spent my entire career working to advance the clean energy transition, and our focus here at HACC is a continuation of that commitment, but with even greater ambition. HACC’s vision is systemic change in the energy sector. To this end, our mission is to bring together policymakers, industry partners and community leaders to build enduring power for climate action and system change at critical energy nexus points, including maritime ports.

Why ports? They are key energy hubs, facilitating energy trade and providing essential infrastructure for electricity and fuel needs across transport modes. This makes ports a prime catalyst for transformative change. As we continue to grow, we’re set on applying this approach to other strategic targets, advancing climate action across the broader energy sector.

But this vision and mission isn’t mine alone. Together with my co-founder, Sandy Naranjo, and a few of our founding Collective members, we wanted to build a solutions-oriented forum for collaboration and collective action–and that’s exactly what we’re doing.
With the IMO’s new regulations on decarbonisation and sustainability in shipping coming into effect, what opportunities and challenges do you see for the transport and logistics sectors?

The IMO’s forthcoming compliance measures represent a major opportunity to accelerate shipping’s energy transition, particularly with respect to accelerating the uptake of green hydrogen-based fuels including green e-methanol, and in electrifying port operations. These measures will also provide a framework for financing the transition, creating opportunities for first-movers to lead in sustainability.

However, challenges remain. The fragmented governance of ports and shipping means that aligning global standards with local implementation is an incredibly complex undertaking. Moreover, the high upfront costs of clean energy infrastructure—like bunkering facilities for low- and zero-emission fuels and grid upgrades—pose barriers, especially for smaller ports. To address these challenges, we’re focused on bridging these gaps by fostering collaboration between stakeholders, creating knowledge hubs, and advocating for policy frameworks that can support innovation and streamline compliance systems.
Climate change often demands collaborative efforts across industries. How does the HACC engage with stakeholders in the transport sector to drive meaningful progress?

HACC is a convener, bringing together policymakers, industry partners, and community leaders in an effort to break down silos that exist between these stakeholder groups, encourage collaboration and foster cross-sector partnerships. Through forums, workshops, and our digital HACC Hub, we create spaces for knowledge exchange, helping stakeholders share insights, best practices, and innovative solutions.

By focusing on research, education and capacity-building, we help stakeholders—from port authorities to energy providers—translate ideas into action. For example, we’re developing built-for-purpose resources to guide ports and policymakers for high ambition climate action. As we look towards 2025, we’re excited to start building bridges between regions, ensuring that successful initiatives in one market inform strategies in others, accelerating global progress.
How can collaborative networks like HACC and PLIKA accelerate the adoption of green energy solutions in transport, and what specific role do you envision for such networks in shaping future policies?

Collaborative networks like HACC and PLIKA are vital for accelerating and sustaining green energy solutions by fostering dialogue, aligning interests, and driving coordinated action. They tackle barriers head-on, pool expertise, and build consensus on best practices to ensure scalable, impactful solutions.

Networks like HACC are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between local successes and systemic change. For example, through our Climate-Positive Ports initiative, we amplify projects like port electrification in California and green fuel bunkering in Rotterdam. These serve as proof-of-concept models that can inform global development, ensuring they are rooted in real-world application. And by bringing together stakeholders across sectors, we encourage alignment on best practices and provide actionable recommendations for policymakers, driving global impact from local innovation.
In your view, what role does education and training play in advancing sustainability in transport? What skills or knowledge areas do you think are most essential for professionals to develop, and how can institutions like Escola Europea and organisations like HACC contribute to shaping a greener future for the sector?

Education and training are at the heart of a just and sustainable transition in the transport sector, and Escola Europea is already paving the way with its programs. The focus on maritime training and fostering blue economy skills is essential for equipping today’s workers with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of the energy transition, and inspiring the future workforce to see themselves in these careers. From alternative fuels to digitalization, Escola’s programs ensure the maritime workforce is not only prepared but positioned to thrive in a decarbonized industry.

At HACC, we see an opportunity to build on this leadership by complementing Escola’s work with our focus on systemic change and cross-sector collaboration, and we’re so proud to count Escola Europea as a Knowledge Partner of our Climate-Positive Ports initiative. By working together, we can help ensure that the workforce is ready to meet the challenges of the energy transition while prioritizing worker safety, equity, and long-term resilience.
Looking ahead, what trends or innovations in sustainable transport excite you the most, and how do you see the HACC contributing to these developments?

We are thrilled by the innovation sparked by this transition and look forward to collaborating with our maritime and blue tech partners—including incubators, accelerators, and entrepreneurs—to integrate these advancements into global systems for lasting impact.

We welcome your readers to read more about our work and to join our movement at www.hacc.world.

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.

Spain’s Ministry of Transport Highlights Escola Europea’s Port Virtual Lab as a Key Tool for Logistics Digitalisation

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Madrid, 4 December 2024 – Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, and Marta Miquel, Head of the Institution’s Business Development Department, met today in Madrid with Benito Núñez Quintanilla, Secretary General for Air and Maritime Transport at Spain’s Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda. The meeting focused on advancing digitalisation in the port and airport logistics sectors.

During the discussion, Escola Europea presented its simulation tool, the Port Virtual Lab (PVL), which is designed to train logistics professionals through simulated environments that replicate real-world operations. The Secretary General was highly impressed with the initiative, recognising its potential to accelerate digitalisation in the sector and its suitability for inclusion in the Ministry’s Digitalisation Training Voucher programmes.

Having collaborated with Escola Europea in previous roles within the Ministry, Benito Núñez was already familiar with the organisation’s work. This prior knowledge reinforced his positive evaluation of the Port Virtual Lab and its potential for practical application in both the port and airport logistics sectors.

“Digitalisation is one of the logistics sector’s most pressing challenges, and initiatives like the Port Virtual Lab can make a real impact in equipping professionals to tackle the demands of the future,” said Eduard Rodés during the meeting.

This meeting reaffirms Escola Europea’s commitment to innovation and excellence in training, strengthening its position as a key player in the modernisation and digitalisation of the logistics industry.