Input from the Pilot Port Representatives Brings Added Value to the Project
Stakeholder commitment continues to be one of the key elements of the Sustainable Flow project. On March 27, 2025, the project organised the second online get-together for key stakeholder representatives from the seven pilot ports of the project. The aim was for port representatives to hear status and topical issues of the project as well as to bring their view to the table.
The meeting, led by Heikki Koivisto from SAMK, provided a comprehensive update on the project’s progress: the most pressing ongoing task is to develop emission calculation and decision-making tool. Highlighting the strategic focus on sustainability, he explained that the new digital tool will not only streamline reporting processes but also facilitate critical decisions regarding energy savings and CO₂ reductions.
A deeper look was taken into the digital tool development by showcasing preliminary user interface designs, noting that the tool is designed to minimize manual data input while ensuring robust cybersecurity measures. The goal is to deliver a solution that meets the operational needs of each port and supports regulatory reporting, all while remaining open source for further innovation.
Highlights of the Discussions
The meeting featured vibrant discussions around technical challenges and practical applications. Port of Mariehamn highlighted the project’s potential to differentiate between vertical and horizontal solar panel installations, which could significantly influence energy production metrics at ports. This focus on solar panels—one of several sustainability initiatives discussed—illustrates the project’s dual aim of enhancing operational efficiency while reducing environmental footprints.
Participants from other ports also shared their experiences with existing environmental reporting systems and underlined the need for a unified digital tool. For example, Port of Norrköping noted that the digital tool is poised to transform how data is gathered and analysed. In general, many of the ports look forward to enhanced reporting capabilities to help day-to-day operations.
Looking ahead
The meeting concluded on an optimistic note with a clear set of action items: enhancing API integration, finalizing user interface details, and launching of the MVP (Minimal Viable Product) tool for the first three pilot ports test use in late May. These steps are critical to ensure that the digital tool evolves in direct response to user feedback and continues to meet the dynamic needs of the maritime industry.
It is foreseen that with the emission calculation and decision-making tool the project is well-positioned to deliver both operational efficiency and significant environmental benefits. In this respect, an active spirit of collaboration is essential.
