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.

ICS2: A New Era for Customs Control in Europe—and How to Get Your Business Ready

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International trade is undergoing a profound transformation. Changing regulations, digitalized documentation, and advanced technological tools have reshaped the landscape for everyone involved in the global supply chain. One of the most significant changes that importers, freight forwarders, and customs brokers must now face is the implementation of ICS2 (Import Control System 2)—a new EU-wide system that redefines how customs controls are managed throughout Europe.

What is ICS2 and Why Does It Matter?

ICS2 is the European Union’s enhanced customs safety and security program. Its objective is to strengthen border security by ensuring that customs authorities receive complete, accurate, and timely data about all goods entering the EU. Unlike its predecessor, ICS2 is designed to improve the capacity of authorities to respond to potential risks more effectively while simultaneously streamlining legitimate trade flows.

But why is this relevant to your business? Compliance with these new regulations isn’t optional. Failure to adapt could lead to delays, additional inspections, fines, and reputational damage. In an increasingly competitive global market, staying aligned with these evolving rules is not just about avoiding penalties—it’s about maintaining trust, efficiency, and strategic positioning for your company.

The Challenges of the New Customs Environment

Adapting to ICS2 means meeting more stringent data requirements and adhering to tighter deadlines. Companies must now provide detailed, accurate information about shipments before they arrive, necessitating closer coordination between importers, freight forwarders, customs agents, carriers, and other logistics partners. Moreover, ICS2 emphasizes data quality: incomplete or incorrect information can trigger additional inspections, cargo holds, and costly operational setbacks.

This transformation goes beyond just filing procedures. ICS2 aims to standardize and digitalize the data exchange process, encouraging the use of advanced IT solutions. As a result, businesses must understand the regulations and ensure they have the appropriate software, platforms, and training to manage their customs operations effectively.

Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Although this new environment might seem daunting, it also presents real opportunities for businesses that can adapt swiftly. Early adoption of digital tools, staff training, and the implementation of robust internal processes can ultimately optimize customs management. This can translate into risk reduction, shorter transit times, fewer incidents, and, consequently, an enhanced customer experience.

ICS2, along with other industry shifts—such as the rise of cross-border e-commerce, the growing emphasis on sustainability (as reflected in measures like the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism), and the increasing relevance of compliance—forms a rapidly changing landscape. In such an environment, agility and up-to-date knowledge set top performers apart.

How to Prepare: Specialized Knowledge and Training

The key to successfully navigating these changes is investing in expertise. Companies that want to minimize risks and leverage competitive advantages in the post-ICS2 era need specialized training delivered by professionals actively involved in customs operations and international logistics.

This is where “Effective Customs Strategies” (21 January to 4 February 2025) comes into play. This hybrid course—offering online sessions coupled with on-site visits to crucial facilities in Barcelona—presents a unique opportunity for executives, directors, and decision-makers in the field of international trade. The training provides participants with the tools, insights, and best practices necessary to align with the newest regulations and streamline their customs processes.

Why This Course Can Make a Difference

  • Industry Experts: The program features speakers from the Spanish Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria), experienced customs professionals, and other field specialists directly involved with ICS2 and related directives. You’ll gain firsthand knowledge, address specific operational concerns, and receive practical guidance tailored to your business.
  • Comprehensive View: Beyond ICS2, the course delves into other key trends reshaping the customs landscape. Topics include centralized European customs clearance procedures, adapting operations to the surge in e-commerce, understanding carbon border adjustment measures, and managing incidents, irregularities, and sanctions.
  • Practical Learning: The in-person portion of the course allows participants to visit container terminals, understand how customs scanners work, and explore the Border Inspection Post (BIP). These hands-on experiences provide a tangible, real-world perspective that goes far beyond theory.
  • Networking Opportunities: The training includes group meals and a networking dinner in Barcelona. These informal gatherings create the perfect setting to share experiences, exchange contacts, and form valuable professional connections with peers from across the industry.
  • Compliance and Competitiveness: By the end of the course, you won’t just have the technical and regulatory knowledge you need. You’ll also understand how to integrate compliance strategies into your company’s structure. This integrated approach will help you reduce risks and, at the same time, improve your company’s competitiveness on the international stage.

Taking the Next Step: Future-Proofing Your Company

ICS2 and the broader changes in customs regulation are not roadblocks—they are catalysts that can help you refine, strengthen, and evolve your company’s operations. Acquiring the right training is the first step in adapting your processes, optimizing your supply chain, and positioning yourself advantageously in the global market.

If you want to ensure that your organization is ready for the new era of customs control in Europe, we invite you to learn more about the upcoming course (in Spanish). Click on the link below to access additional information about the program structure, session topics, practical visits, and registration details.

Prepare Today for Tomorrow’s Challenges

With ICS2 and other customs innovations on the horizon, knowledge is your most valuable ally. Visit our information page, learn more for the course, and give your operations the competitive edge they deserve. 

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Note: This article was created with the assistance of a large language processing model.

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.

Escola Europea, ITS Academy “G. Caboto,” and the Port Authority of Rome Sign Seven-Year Agreement

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Strengthening Innovation in Maritime Education with the Port Virtual Lab and New Transport Planning Programme

Civitavecchia, 18th November 2024 — Escola Europea, ITS Academy “G. Caboto,” and the Port Authority of Rome (Autorità di Sistema Portuale del Mar Tirreno Centro Settentrionale) have renewed their collaboration agreement, extending their partnership for another seven years. This extended agreement reaffirms their shared mission to drive excellence in maritime education, port logistics, and environmental sustainability.

Central to this renewed collaboration is the Port Virtual Lab (PVL), an innovative simulation tool that allows students to experience real-world logistics challenges within a dynamic digital setting. PVL immerses students in hands-on learning, where they can navigate complex logistical scenarios, gain practical skills, and develop problem-solving capabilities critical for today’s maritime and logistics sectors. The inclusion of PVL underscores the three institutions’ commitment to advancing maritime education through cutting-edge technologies.

“We are delighted to continue and deepen our partnership with ITS Academy ‘G. Caboto’ and the Port Authority of Rome,” said Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea. “Our aim is to provide high-quality, practical education that prepares young professionals for the demands of a complex logistics landscape. By extending our collaboration, we continue to support critical skills development through innovative training programs.”

Since its inception five years ago, Escola Europea has supported the development of forward-looking training programs at ITS Academy. This year, as part of this ongoing effort, the partnership will also introduce a new Transport and Logistics Planning course. While Escola’s role in this program is still being defined, the course represents a key step in addressing the evolving needs of the maritime and logistics fields.

The renewed agreement aligns with the long-term vision of all three institutions: to equip the next generation of industry professionals with advanced training, promote sustainable practices, and foster innovation across Europe’s port logistics communities.

For more information on this collaboration or the upcoming programs, please contact: Alessia Mastromattei.

Escola Partners in Launch of New ITS Courses for Sustainable Mobility in Sicily

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This November, ITS Academy InfoMobPMO in Palermo, with the support of partners like Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, is launching two innovative post-diploma ITS Sustainable Mobility Courses Sicily. These programmes aim to equip Sicilian youth with the skills needed to thrive in growing industries and address the regional demand for qualified professionals.

The two courses are:

  1. Passenger Experience Onboard: Preparing students for careers in managing passenger services onboard ships, addressing the high demand for skilled professionals in the cruise sector.
  2. Ship Operations and Systems Management: Training future specialists in the operation of ships and the management of onboard systems and equipment.
  3. Transport Infrastructure and Vehicle Maintenance: Focused on optimising and maintaining transportation systems and related infrastructure, a critical area for sustainable mobility.
  4. Logistics and Intermodal Transport: Providing comprehensive training in logistics, intermodal operations, and the integration of transport systems to meet the growing need for skilled professionals in this field.

All courses combine classroom learning with hands-on internships in local companies, offering students a fast track into the workforce. As part of the training, students will participate in courses led by Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, focusing on intermodal logistics and sustainable transport solutions. This collaboration ensures graduates receive practical, industry-relevant expertise that prepares them for careers in the evolving mobility sector. It is important to note that the Port Authority of Palermo, a key member of Escola Europea, plays an integral role in these initiatives, contributing its expertise in maritime logistics and supporting the hands-on training components.

“Collaborating with ITS InfoMobPMO allows us to contribute expertise in intermodal and sustainable mobility, providing students with practical skills for a dynamic sector,” said Marco Muci, Country Manager for Italy at the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport.

With funding from the PNRR (National Recovery and Resilience Plan), these ITS Sustainable Mobility Courses aim to strengthen connections between education and industry, creating opportunities for local youth while boosting Sicily’s economy.

Applications are open until 24 November. For more details, head here. 

Partnership Agreement Signed for the Implementation of PVL.ONE in Casablanca

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Casablanca, 2 October 2024 – A new partnership has been formalised between the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport and the Institute for Training in Logistics and Transport (IFTL) in Casablanca. This collaboration marks the beginning of the implementation of the PVL.ONE platform, an innovative training tool designed to enhance professional competencies in the field of logistics and transport.

The agreement was signed by Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea, and Mohamed Karaouane, Director of the IFTL. The signing ceremony was attended by key representatives from both organisations and other industry leaders. Pictured at the event alongside the signees were Yassir Lamnadi from the Escola Europea, Hicham Soufi, Vice President of the Moroccan Freight Forwarding Association (AFFM), Fedwa Driouch, Dr. Sanaa Hassini, Mostapha Benhima from Grimaldi, and Rachid Tahri, President of the Moroccan Freight Forwarders Association.

PVL.ONE is a cutting-edge virtual platform designed to simulate port operations, providing users with real-world scenarios that improve decision-making skills and operational efficiency. The partnership between the Escola and IFTL seeks to strengthen the logistics and transport training infrastructure in Morocco, aligning with the country’s goals of increasing sustainability and competitiveness in the global market.

Through this collaboration, professionals in Morocco will gain access to top-tier training solutions that leverage the latest in technology and innovation, fostering greater expertise in the logistics sector.

For more information, please contact: info@escolaeuropea.eu.

PLIKA Hosts Successful First Webinar

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On September 12th, at 11:00 CET, PLIKA hosted its inaugural webinar on Digital Solutions and Artificial Intelligence in Ports exclusively for its members, known as PLIKERS. The event attracted approximately 27 participants and featured two distinguished speakers, each with extensive experience in the port and logistics sectors.

The first speaker, Prof. Alaa Morsy, Vice President of PLIKA, brought over 23 years of expertise in port operations, specialising in training, consulting, and research with a focus on sustainability and innovation. His presentation, titled “Digital Solutions for Sustainable Port Operations,” explored the evolution of technology from the agricultural era to the current digitalization era, and how these advancements are reshaping the port industry.

Prof. Morsy emphasised the growing role of port automation systems, highlighting tools such as intelligent cranes, automated vehicles, remotely monitored Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) cranes, Optical Character Recognition (OCR), and Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV). He explained that the implementation of digital control analytics and unified dashboards can help port operators track emissions, optimize infrastructure, and plan for future needs. The Internet of Things (IoT), he noted, further supports this digital transformation by optimizing asset maintenance, electricity usage, and equipment performance.

He concluded by stressing the importance of digitalization for improving warehouse management, enhancing environmental sustainability through renewable energy integration, and driving data-driven decision-making. However, he also addressed the challenges of cybersecurity risks and the high costs associated with installing advanced IT infrastructure in ports.

The second speaker, Mr. Carles Rua, Head of Innovation at the Port of Barcelona, brought over 15 years of experience to his presentation on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in port operations and supply chain management. Mr. Rua remarked that while AI itself is not new, the current combination of technologies is revolutionising the industry.

He shared several examples of AI implementation at the Port of Barcelona, including virtual gates that scan seals, analyse cargo, and measure volumetric characteristics using LIDAR technology at terminal entrances. Another initiative he mentioned was the introduction of autonomous and electric buses as part of the port’s innovation drive. He also highlighted the 5G Maritime project, which leverages smart cameras for smart vessel location, detecting both large and small vessels.

Throughout the webinar, Ms. Ana Rumbeu, Vice President of PLIKA, expressed her enthusiasm for the topics discussed. She underscored the importance of implementing these innovations in the field, drawing attention to the ValenciaPort Foundation’s initiative to train copilots who can lead small-scale innovations that could result in major organisational changes over time.

The event concluded with a dynamic Q&A session, where participants actively engaged with the speakers, asking insightful questions about the topics presented. The high level of interest demonstrated the relevance of these issues within the PLIKA community.

Ms. Ana Rumbeu closed the session by emphasising the importance of maintaining the strong bonds and exchanges that PLIKA members have built and how this community can continue to thrive through collaboration and shared knowledge.

PLIKA, born out of the YEP MED project, aims to serve as a collaborative platform that brings the brightest minds of the industry together.