PIONEERS at ESPO 2023

Bremenports hosted the 19th Annual Conference of the European Sea Ports Organisation on June 1-2, 2023, under the theme “Europe’s ports as partners in the race to net-zero“. The two-day conference provided insightful discussions, networking, and learning opportunities with high-level speakers.

The first day of the conference was dedicated to exploring the economic and energy outlook, with engaging discussions on the impact of game changers on supply chains and port operations. A highlight of the day was the ESPO Pop Up Port Academy, where industry leaders gathered to discuss the different funding possibilities and address crucial questions concerning the future of ports.

Pieter Vandermeeren, from Port of Antwerp-Bruges, shared insights on the PIONEERS Green Port Masterplan approach. Pieter challenged the participants to think about how we should plan for the future and make long-term strategies in a rapidly changing world. He emphasised the need for radical thinking, new skills, and increased capacity to effectively address the challenges ahead: “Port authorities must ask the right questions, engage with the port community, and collaborate to shape the transition successfully. Power is shifting, and our role as community builders must be earned through innovative projects and stakeholder involvement.”

ESPO Conference 2023 was a unique opportunity for PIONEERS to present to the audience the journey of shaping the future ports and have important discussions with industry leaders.

Have a look at the photo gallery!