Emerging Technologies and Sustainability in Brazilian Ports and Terminals: An Analysis of the Current Situation

doi:10.21203/rs.3.rs-3740575/v1

In the face of the growing demand for maritime transportation in the global economic context, ports are under increasing pressure from stakeholders to enhance their operational effectiveness and address environmental issues such as air and water pollution and inherent energy and security challenges. The transition to smarter and environmentally responsible ports is perceived not only as a choice but a strategic necessity, considering the multifaceted demands of the current global landscape. The Sustainable Development Goals offer a comprehensive framework to guide this evolution. In the Brazilian context, this paper aims to explore the impact of emerging technologies on the sustainability of Brazilian port industry. The research explores how such technological advancements influence the sustainability of the Brazilian port sector, considering their potential to drive sustainable practices and enhance operational efficiency. The study focused on Brazilian ports and terminals with the highest cargo volumes, including a sample of 23 port entities. The methodology adopted consisted of content analysis of sustainability reports published by the study's companies. An analysis of the sustainability reports of Brazilian ports and terminals reveals a diversity of technologies in continuous application. Technologies such as cameras, radar systems, artificial intelligence, and vessel traffic services, among others, are assuming multifaceted roles encompassing environmental monitoring, maritime traffic management, operational optimization, and security assistance. These technological advancements bolster the efficiency and safety of port operations and contribute significantly to sustainability efforts by facilitating early issue detection and mitigating environmental impacts. Furthermore, they create a pathway for the integration of emerging technologies like the Internet of Things and machine learning, offering the promise of additional efficiency gains and innovative solutions within the port sector.

Sustainability

Sustainability reports

Emerging Technologies

Ports

Ports represent a crucial infrastructure in global supply routes, functioning as regional multimodal hubs. However, they operate in an environment characterized by complexities arising from infrastructure, commercial transactions, and regulations (Lacalle et al., 2019).

The growth of maritime transportation in the global economy has posed significant challenges to port sustainability. These challenges encompass economic, environmental, energy, and productivity dimensions. On the economic front, ports seek to optimize operational performance, addressing congestion, delays, errors, operational halts, and lack of information sharing. The environmental dimension involves concerns related to air, water, and noise pollution, waste management, and port facility expansion (Molavi et al., 2019).

One of the major impacts related to the port industry relates to air pollution caused by emissions from ship exhaust gases and particles, constituting a significant and growing contributor to the sector's emissions and, consequently, to climate change (Azarkamand et al., 2020).

In the current digital era, ports face intense competition within global supply chains. Smart ports apply information and communication technologies to implement various smart applications, resulting in significant improvements in vessel and container management, among other aspects (Yau et al., 2020).

Given the rising energy consumption and costs, energy efficiency is a critical aspect of port sustainability (Iris and Lam, 2019). Ports aim to enhance energy efficiency to lower expenses and address climate change concerns. Furthermore, power interruptions pose risks, particularly in safety and potential impacts on port operations, such as ship collisions (Molavi et al., 2019).

Ports in urban areas often contribute to local growth but have substantial environmental and infrastructural impacts on the surrounding communities. To address these challenges, future ports must adopt advanced monitoring and intervention tools to manage and mitigate the consequences of their operations effectively (Lacalle et al., 2019).

Concerns about navigation safety are another factor that brings the need for technological solutions in the maritime sector. Accidents that cause leaks on ships are a critical point that harms the maritime ecosystem and brings tension to the socioeconomic activities related to this mode of operation (Abou El-Magd et al., 2021).

The shift towards smart and sustainable ports is not merely a choice but an essential strategy in response to the intricate and interconnected demands of the contemporary global context. In this context, the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) introduced by the United Nations (UN) in 2015 offer a robust and comprehensive framework for guiding this transformation. The SDGs seek to balance economic growth, social inclusivity, and environmental preservation, all of which are inherent principles of sustainability.

For instance, SDG 9, which focuses on industry, innovation, and infrastructure, underscores the UN's commitment to building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation. This objective holds particular significance in the transformation of traditional ports into smart and sustainable ports, setting a benchmark for progress aligned with environmental and social responsibility (United Nations, 2015).

The adoption of Industry 4.0 has become a relevant topic in the port sector. The emerging technological and digital innovations of this revolution have the potential to cause significant transformations in various sectors, including the port industry. This can lead to significant improvements in efficiency (Giusti et al., 2019; Cavalli et al., 2021). Industry 4.0 technologies have the power to redefine port operational processes, from cargo handling and unloading optimization to inventory management improvements, reduction of ship waiting times, and enhancement of port environmental sustainability and safety (Sari, Pamadi, 2019).

A combination of technologies can bring about digital platforms that drive port management, resulting in positive impacts on safety, productivity, and sustainability, enabling effective data communication and analysis for both operations and all stakeholders in the sector (Di Vaio, Varriale, 2020; Sislian, Jaegler, 2020).

Sustainability is one of the main challenges faced by modern ports. The application of Industry 4.0 technologies in ports can have a significant impact on improving port sustainability. According to Philipp et al. (2021), automation can contribute to reducing emissions of pollutants and energy consumption, while Moura (2022) highlights that emerging technologies can improve operational safety.

Recent studies have provided substantial mapping of emerging technologies in global port infrastructure. However, these studies tend to focus on specific technologies and are limited to specific ports. The works of Lacalle et al. (2020), Zhao et al. (2020), and Pagano et al. (2022) focused on Internet of Things (IoT) technology, while Echeverry et al. (2015) and Tsolakis et al. (2022) investigated the applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in port operations. Furthermore, the research of Ruiz et al. (2012) and McGinley (2014) examined the implementation of autonomous systems.

Regarding the geographical dimension, there is considerable diversity in the research landscape. The study by Ruiz et al. (2012) focused on a port in Spain, in contrast to the Dubai scenario investigated by McGinley (2014). Echeverry et al. (2015) applied their methodologies in the United States, while Bayoumi et al. (2020) focused on Egyptian ports. Lacalle et al. (2020) in Greece, Zhao et al. (2020) in China, and Pagano et al. (2022) in Italy. This geographical diversity highlights the heterogeneous adoption of emerging technologies in ports but also underscores significant gaps in regions such as Africa and Latin America.

This finding highlights a gap in scientific production on the subject and emphasizes the need for deeper investigations in regions that have been less represented in existing studies, as is the case in Brazil. It becomes imperative to understand the current stage of implementation of these technologies in the Brazilian context, considering the specific characteristics and inherent challenges of the national port sector.

In this context, the aim of this paper is to explore the impact of emerging technologies on the sustainability of the Brazilian port industry. To achieve this objective the content analysis was conducted using tools such as Python, IRaMuTeQ and VOSviewer.

The analysis of specialized literature on the use of emerging technologies highlights the central role of sustainability in the various advantages that these innovations can provide. The introduction of advanced technological devices, including cameras, satellites, radars, and sensors, promotes sustainable operability by enhancing productivity and safety, as well as optimizing energy efficiency. These tools are fundamental for the development of integrated platforms, such as the Port Community System, which serve as exemplars of the potential of these technologies to drive sustainable practices within the port industry (McGinley, 2014; Pedrielli et al., 2020; Yau et al., 2020; Aslam et al., 2020; Bayoumi et al., 2020; Philipp et al., 2021; Remondino, Zanin, 2022; Tsolakis et al., 2022; Derrig, 2022).

The deployment of autonomous systems in container transport vehicles is facilitated by Internet of Things based sensors at the port of Dublin. The use of these systems results in more sustainable, environmentally, and economically viable container handling (McGinley, 2014).

Pedrielli et al. (2020) have made a significant contribution to this field by proposing the use of AI in ship route simulation, aiming at collision prevention an advancement that promises to improve not only safety but also maritime operations.

In parallel, Yau et al. (2020) explored the possibilities offered by Internet of Things technologies for the creation of smart ports. They reviewed how IoT-based management systems can enhance energy efficiency, equipment, and container management, while simultaneously reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The central point of the study's analysis is the capacity of Information and Communication Technologies to enhance port operations and services, raising economic competitiveness and contributing to environmental sustainability. Aslam et al. (2020), in a complementary line of research, described in detail the architecture, challenges, and emerging applications of IoT in the context of maritime navigation.

Bayoumi et al. (2020) analyzed the impacts of IoT application in Egyptian ports through interviews with key stakeholders. They concluded that integrating IoT with other Information and Communication Technologies tools can provide maritime ports with better monitoring of their operations, resulting in gains in environmental, social, and economic sustainability. However, they also observed barriers related to data privacy and standardization, as well as a lack of knowledge among key stakeholders.

Philipp et al. (2021) provided a crucial analysis of automation in bulk cargo handling ports. They highlighted how IoT technologies have facilitated the autonomous operation of ships, catalyzing significant improvements in productivity, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability. However, the authors pointed out technical obstacles, such as the still limited commercial availability of 5G networks, which are essential for effective sensor and IoT device connectivity. Transitioning to the agri-food logistics context, Remondino and Zanin (2022) contributed to the existing literature by exploring how emerging technologies can be applied to optimize this logistics chain in Italy. They emphasized benefits such as reducing operational costs, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing logistics efficiency.

A recent study highlights the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the management of autonomous guided vehicles in container terminals, particularly focusing on the environmental benefits of AI and automation, especially in land-based port operations. The study also emphasizes the critical importance of collecting and analyzing data efficiently, highlighting that this is fundamental for the safe and effective use of these advanced technologies (Tsolakis et al., 2022).

Another study addressed the applicability of autonomous robots in vessel inspection, considering compliance with European Union regulations. The work not only recognized these technologies as promising areas of research with notable technological growth but also concluded that the adoption of such innovations can comply with existing regulations. This recognition reinforces the commitment to sustainability initiatives, aligning with the need to meet regulatory and environmental standards (Derrig, 2022).

When it comes to data standardization, the studies by Lacalle et al. (2019) and Pagano et al. (2022) stand out. Lacalle et al. (2019) proposed an IoT-based solution for monitoring and decision-making aimed at reducing environmental impacts in ports. They applied the solution to four European ports (Bordeaux, Monfalcone, Piraeus, and Thessaloniki) and emphasized the importance of data standardization. On the other hand, Pagano et al. (2022) indicated the standardization of Information and Communication Technology services, based on the Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence, in European ports.

In the realm of overseeing and assessing the utilization of cutting-edge technologies within the port industry, the research conducted by Zhao et al. (2020), Steiner et al. (2022), and Peoples et al. (2022) is noteworthy. Zhao et al. (2020) undertook an examination of the deployment of Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data-driven technologies at the Huanghua port, with a primary focus on enhancing energy efficiency and environmental surveillance and management. The findings revealed that the implemented measures facilitated the amalgamation of environmental and production metrics, thereby contributing to operational efficiency and heightened revenue generation for the port.

In the study by Steiner et al. (2022), a layout was proposed for real-time environmental indicator assessment using IoT, AI, and Big Data technologies. They emphasized the importance of these technologies in enhancing efficiency and environmental sustainability. In parallel, Peoples et al. (2022) investigated the application of IoT in monitoring the satisfaction of port workers, regulated by a service level agreement. The results highlighted that the implementation of IoT-based technologies can facilitate the analysis of employee satisfaction in a complex environment like the port sector.

Public policies are fundamental drivers for promoting sustainability for all parties involved in the port sector, and thus, it is essential to observe the interactions in this sector. Serrano et al. (2018), Lacalle et al. (2020), and Sadiq et al. (2021) demonstrate that emerging technologies are essential for understanding how public policies influence and can be formulated through the application of these technologies. Serrano et al. (2018) analyzed the dimensions of port sustainability using artificial intelligence. They emphasized that the primary dimension of sustainability is institutional, emphasizing the importance of appropriate policies and regulations to promote sustainable practices in ports. Lacalle et al. (2020) suggested the implementation of real-time monitoring to prevent congestion at access points between the city and the port, using IoT-based technologies. They developed a methodology to define, calculate, and anticipate composite indicators that assist in creating beneficial public policies for both the port and the city.

Sadiq et al. (2021) reviewed the application of IoT to improve energy efficiency in ports, addressing various logistical processes such as truck scheduling and cargo movement management. They emphasized the importance of regulatory policies and modern port infrastructure in reducing pollutants and increasing energy efficiency.

Strategic decision-making is a present element in the port industry to ensure its survival, and the studies by Echeverry et al. (2015) and González-Cancelas et al. (2019) discuss how emerging technologies contribute to this theme. Echeverry et al. (2015) discussed the application of an intelligent conceptual decision support module based on artificial intelligence (AI) for environmental protection and the identification of potential partners in collaborative environmental management. On the other hand, González-Cancelas et al. (2019) applied AI technologies to define the main variables influencing the decision to use Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) in ships, contributing to the search for more sustainable solutions for the maritime sector.

Recent studies in the field of logistics and port operations highlight a growing trend towards sustainability, with the application of advanced technologies to optimize environmental and operational performance (Lind et al., 2016; Heilig et al., 2017; Giusti et al., 2019; Di Vaio, Varriale, 2020; Sislian, Jaegler, 2020; Tijan et al., 2021). Lind et al. (2016) make a significant contribution to this field by promoting efficiency and safety and by contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions through a real-time information sharing system. Heilig et al. (2017) complement this picture by presenting a cloud platform that supports logistics decisions with a focus on truck emissions, promoting sustainable practices in the port context.

Giusti et al. (2019) offer a perspective on the management and monitoring of maritime transport, emphasizing the ability to make the logistics chain more predictable and sustainable through a cloud-based module. Di Vaio, Varriale (2020) highlight the benefits of the Port Community System (PCS), including process simplification and automation, cost reduction, and improved management of operational information and data. Tijan et al. (2021) discuss the transformation of port authorities into digital hubs through the PCS, emphasizing operational sustainability through efficient infrastructure use. On the other hand, Sislian and Jaegler (2020) analyze the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, finding positive impacts on financial and non-financial indicators, although its direct connection to port sustainability is less evident.

Several devices are responsible for enabling digitization in ports (Abou El-Magd et al. 2021; Van Kol et al. 2021; Albuquerque et al., 2022; Young et al., 2022). Abou El-Magd et al. (2021) studied a model for the application of radar and satellite-based Synthetic Aperture Radar to predict almost real-time oil spills on the Egyptian coast and create a report to alert Egyptian authorities to spills, enabling timely and effective response. Van Kol et al. (2021) describe the use of sensors to measure equipment performance and enable adaptability to different operating conditions in the bulk handling industry, concluding that sensor applications, combined with actuators, can ensure equipment adaptability in continuous work regimes, bringing benefits similar to those of Industry 4.0, such as the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence, making these operations intelligent, connected, and sustainable.

Albuquerque et al. (2022) conducted a bibliometric analysis of cyberattacks on sensors and naval systems, highlighting that the integration of sensors in the maritime sector is essential for logistics efficiency and security in this sector. They concluded that the maritime industry is increasingly reliant on information and communication technologies and requires the management of cyber risks for its assets.

Young et al. (2022) describe the analysis of the North American maritime system's profile using big data and emphasize that such analysis can be used to identify vulnerabilities in the North American maritime system.

This study is exploratory and descriptive in nature, adopting a methodology grounded in content analysis and incorporating text mining techniques to evaluate sustainability reports or equivalent documents produced by ports and terminals.

For the data mining strategy, 23 reports were read and processed using Python software. In this process, high-frequency terms in academic literature (Fig. 1a) were selected as parameters to identify other associated words (Fig. 1b) with the help of Python. The word "technology" was also included.

Throughout the development of this research, text mining methods using Python were adopted, allowing for the extraction and evaluation of relevant texts from the reports discussing the adoption of technologies in port operations and their connections with other pertinent themes. The detailed analysis of these reports facilitated the expansion of the set of words. Considering the words in the study detailed in Fig. 1, utilizing the functionalities of VOSviewer and IRaMuTeQ.

VOSviewer is recognized for its efficiency in developing bibliometric networks, enabling researchers to map bibliographic data and reveal complex nuances in the results obtained. This software not only facilitates the visualization of emerging trends and patterns but also identifies theoretical and practical interconnections among the analyzed documents, providing a broad overview of the field of study (Mas-Tur et al., 2021; Di Vaio et al., 2023). Figure 1 illustrates the words related to emerging technologies employed in the research conducted in the analyzed reports.

To define the study's target population, the criterion adopted was the selection of ports and terminals that recorded the highest rates of port throughput in the year 2021. This choice was based on the premise that such entities, due to their significant volume of operations, have a considerable impact on the port context. Thus, all ports and terminals whose movements represented equal to or greater than 0.5% of the total were included, resulting in a sample of forty-four ports and terminals.

It is noteworthy to emphasize that certain terminals and ports fall under the purview of the same corporate entity or port authority. Considering this observation, the decision was made to scrutinize the reports published by the overseeing corporations, with the objective of garnering a more consolidated and representative perspective of the adopted management practices. However, it is imperative to acknowledge that not all reports were readily accessible via the corporate websites of the respective entities, which culminated in the inclusion of 23 reports in the ultimate sample for analysis. Table 1 compiles essential information relevant to this research endeavour. It systematically presents details regarding each managing company or port authority, specifies the sustainability report employed for the analysis, and quantifies the corresponding proportion of the overall port throughput attributed to the respective port or terminal.

Table 1. Study sample

Item	Company or port authority	Terminals	Report type	Total Cargo Movement (%)
1	Vale S.A.	3	SR 2022	22.5%
2	Transpetro	6	SR 2022	15.6%
3	Santos Port Authority	1	SR 2021	9.3%
4	Docas do Rio	2	AR 2022	5.2%
5	Porto Açu	2	SR 2021	4.4%
6	Portos do Paraná	1	SR 2021	4.2%
7	Emap	1	SR 2021	2.6%
8	VLI	2	SR 2021	2.0%
9	Alcoa	2	SR 2021	1.8%
10	Complexo do Pecém	1	SR 2021	1.8%
11	Complexo do Suape	1	SR 2022	1.8%
12	Porto Sudeste do Brasil	1	SR 2022	1.5%
13	Porto de São Francisco do Sul	1	SR 2021	1.1%
14	Companhia Docas da Bahia	2	IR 2021	1.1%
15	Portonave	1	SR 2021	1.0%
16	Mineração Rio do Norte	1	SR 2021	1.0%
17	Ultracargo	1	IR 2022	0.8%
18	AMAGGI	1	SR 2021	0.8%
19	Companhia Docas do Espírito Santo	1	AR 2018	0.7%
20	Usiminas	1	SR 2022	0.6%
21	SCPAR	1	SR 2021	0.6%
22	Samarco	1	SR 2021	0.6%
23	Portocel	1	AR 2021	0.6%
				81.6%

Note: IR- Integrated Report, SR- Sustainability Report, AR- Annual Report

The analysis of the sustainability reports of the companies covered in this study revealed a complex web of interrelated technologies that are being implemented to optimize operations. This constellation of technological innovations reflects an integrated strategy of Brazilian ports to enhance operational effectiveness and address environmental challenges. The synergy between technologies such as radar and data lakes is particularly notable, where data collection and analysis in near real-time are crucial for port operations monitoring, security, and efficiency enhancement (Abou El-Magd et al., 2021). In parallel, telemetry and VTS are highlighted as essential components in maritime traffic management, involving the use of IoT for safer navigation and smoother traffic management (Lind et al., 2016).

The integration of these technologies not only reinforces the ports' commitment to sustainable practices and reducing environmental impacts but also signals an evolution towards intelligent and adaptable port infrastructure capable of efficiently responding to the demands of global maritime trade and pressures for more sustainable operations. Figure 2 highlights the emerging technologies identified in the study and their connections.

This network of interconnected technologies indicates that Brazilian ports are adopting an inclusive approach to enhance their operations and sustainability. The interconnection between radar and data lakes, for example, demonstrates the use of near real-time data to monitor and improve port operations' safety and efficiency (Abou El-Magd et al., 2021). Telemetry and the vessel traffic service also stand out, indicating a focus on efficient maritime traffic management through Internet of Things-based platforms, which is crucial for safety and operational flow (Lind et al., 2016).

The presence of augmented reality and geotechnical monitoring centres suggests an investment in risk management. Augmented reality can be used for maintenance (Derrig, 2022), while the geotechnical monitoring centre monitors soil and structure conditions (Lebedev, 2016). The inclusion of sensors such as piezometers, geophones, and remotely operated vehicles underscores the importance of environmental monitoring and automation in port management (Albuquerque et al., 2022; McGinley, 2014).

The existence of connections between cameras and various other technologies in Brazilian ports and terminals reveals a strategy to enhance port management and operations. The identified connections include computer vision software, augmented reality, cloud environment, sensors, satellites, piezometers, remotely operated vehicle drones, and geotechnical monitoring centres.

Computer vision software, when associated with cameras, enables real-time object recognition and analysis. This is crucial for safety as it can detect flaws in ships, ensuring their integrity and preventing accidents. Furthermore, it highlights that augmented reality can be used to provide contextual information to camera operators, further enhancing efficiency and safety (Derrig, 2022).

Cloud environment is essential for the secure and accessible storage of images captured by cameras, enabling long-term analysis and data sharing among different departments and even with regulatory authorities (Heilig et al., 2017; Giusti et al., 2019). Sensors integrated into cameras can provide additional information, such as environmental measurements, which are crucial for environmental monitoring, equipment performance analysis, and decision-making (Van Kol et al., 2021; Albuquerque et al., 2022).

Satellites play a significant role in the remote surveillance of port areas, allowing a broader view and tracking of environmental accidents such as oil spills, aiding maritime authorities in locating vessels. Piezometers, as sensors that measure water pressure in the soil, are vital for monitoring soil and port structure stability, preventing landslides and related disasters. The integration of sensors in the maritime sector is essential for logistics efficiency and safety (Albuquerque et al., 2022).

In the context of port logistics, the operation of drones in conjunction with geotechnical monitoring centres exhibits remarkable functional synergy. Drones, used for remotely operating vehicles and conducting routine inspections and safety assurance in port facilities and equipment, play a critical role in optimizing logistical processes. On the other hand, geotechnical monitoring centres have the capacity to analyse seismic and geotechnical data, playing a crucial preventive role in relation to soil characteristics-related risks (Derrig, 2022).

Additionally, when integrated with satellite communication systems, drones expand their scope of applicability, enabling aerial inspections and comprehensive monitoring of extensive port areas. This technological integration is fundamental for early detection of operational irregularities, reinforcing safety and providing a real-time visual database essential for informed decision-making (Themistocleous et al., 2019).

The combination of satellites and sensors allows for remote monitoring of various parameters, such as temperature, humidity, air quality, and cargo movement in ports. This is essential for maintaining the safety and efficiency of operations, as well as complying with environmental regulations (Themistocleous et al., 2019).

The use of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) in conjunction with satellites can optimise resource planning and management in ports. This encompasses everything from vessel scheduling and cargo handling to inventory and logistics management. The integration of these systems can result in more efficient operations and reduced operating costs (Sislian and Jaegler, 2020; Abou El-Magd et al., 2021).

AI can be applied to analyse the data collected by satellites and sensors, identifying trends, forecasts, and insights that would be difficult to obtain otherwise. This is crucial for strategic decision-making and continuous improvement of port operations (Echeverry et al., 2015; Serrano et al., 2018; González-Cancelas et al., 2019; Pedrielli et al., 2020; Tsolakis et al., 2022).

The predominant technologies identified in the sustainability reports of the company’s managing the highest-traffic Brazilian ports are highlighted in Fig. 3. The frequent mention of radar, satellites, and cameras underscores alignment with the global trend of incorporating enabling technologies. These technological advancements are crucial for catalysing operational efficiency, enhancing safety, and promoting sustainable practices within the port context, as indicated by the studies of Abou El-Magd et al. (2021) and Van Kol et al. (2021).

This growing adoption of enabling technologies not only enhances current operations but also paves the way for the implementation of emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and machine learning. By demonstrating the benefits of these established technologies, port companies are more willing to explore innovative solutions that further drive efficiency, safety, and sustainability in their ports (Pagano et al., 2022).

Companies like Vale, Mineração Rio do Norte, Transpetro and Amaggi stand out significantly for including a diversified range of emerging technologies in their sustainability reports (Fig. 4). This prominence can be attributed to multiple factors. Notably, the leadership position of these corporations in their respective sectors often places them at the forefront of technology adoption. Furthermore, the analysis conducted revealed that eight companies in the study do not mention the technologies under investigation in their reports.

Technology has been a fundamental ally in the evolution of port operations in Brazil. Among the innovations that have gained prominence, cameras stand out as essential tools for monitoring and enhancing these operations, as evidenced by Vale, Companhia Docas do Rio de Janeiro, Mineração Rio do Norte, Companhia Docas do Espírito Santo, and Usiminas.

These high-tech cameras not only capture high-resolution images but are also integrated with radar systems for environmental monitoring of coastal regions (Themistocleous et al., 2019).

Cameras have not only enhanced security but also significantly improved operational efficiency by enabling real-time monitoring of equipment, cargo flow, and operational quality. Additionally, they play a pivotal role in promoting sustainability (Van Kol et al., 2021). Their ability to collect valuable data has the potential to drive substantial gains in efficiency, safety, and quality (Pagano et al., 2022).

Cameras are assuming an essential role in the transformation of Brazilian port operations. Their use goes beyond mere surveillance, significantly contributing to increased security and the optimization of efficiency, quality, and sustainability of port activities (Molavi et al., 2019).

There is a connection between the use of cameras and domains such as technology, monitoring, and radar, detailed in Fig. 5. Furthermore, innovation and sustainability are prominent themes, revealing that cameras are not limited to promoting security and surveillance. They also drive innovative and sustainable practices fundamental to environmental sustainability within ports and terminals.

Radars, crucial for port monitoring, are integrated with camera technology. They possess the capability to track vessels, monitor weather conditions, and manage traffic flow within port areas. The information provided by radars is essential to ensure the safety and efficiency of port operations, playing a key role in mitigating and preventing environmental impacts resulting from potential security lapses during operations (Abou El-Magd et al., 2021).

Radars assume a pivotal role in the operational optimization of port areas, particularly in contexts marked by the constant movement of vessels and cargo. They provide accurate insights into sea conditions and vessel positions, empowering operators to make informed real-time decisions. Their enhanced capabilities facilitate rigorous control over vessel access to port zones, guaranteeing entry exclusively for authorized ship, an indispensable component of port security (Pagano et al., 2022).

Figure 6 underscores the significance of radar technology and its associated themes—Technology, Camera, Information, and Operations—emphasizing the wide-ranging applications and consequences resulting from the adoption of this technology. This data illustrates how radar technology enhances port operations in coordination with camera systems and information management.

Figure 7 highlight the importance of satellite technology and the frequently discussed related themes, encompassing Technology, Data, Operations, and Monitoring. These elements underscore the vital role of satellites in collecting and transmitting essential data for the effectiveness and safety of port operations and the ongoing monitoring of maritime activities and climate impacts on coastal zones.

Satellites play a crucial role in coastal monitoring, providing vital data for managing the effects of climate change and human activities in vulnerable areas. They enable the tracking of coastal erosion and monitoring dams to prevent floods, contributing to preventive actions and protecting coastal areas (Themistocleous et al., 2019).

The analysis of sustainability reports from Brazilian ports reveals a network of interconnected technologies that can potentially transform port operations in the country. Technologies such as cameras, radar, artificial intelligence, and vessel traffic services, among others, are playing multifunctional roles, from environmental monitoring to maritime traffic management, operational optimization, and security assistance.

These technologies enhance the efficiency and safety of operations and contribute to sustainability by enabling early problem detection and reducing environmental impacts. Additionally, they pave the way for adopting emerging technologies such as IoT and machine learning, promising further efficiency and innovation in the port sector.

The technologies highlighted in the sustainability reports of Brazilian ports and terminals represent a significant step toward more efficient, safe, and sustainable port operations. Companies like Vale, Mineração Rio do Norte, Transpetro and Amaggi stand out for including diverse emerging technologies in their sustainability reports. Furthermore, the results of this research indicated that eight of the companies included in the study did not mention the predefined technologies for this study in their respective reports.

The paper presents two pivotal contributions to the port sector. Firstly, it reveals a network of advanced technologies – including cameras, radar, AI, and vessel traffic services – which are set to revolutionise Brazilian port operations. These technologies enhance maritime governance, efficiency, security, and sustainability by enabling the early detection of problems and reducing environmental impact. Secondly, the study maps out a path for the adoption of cutting-edge technologies such as IoT and machine learning, showing the readiness of Brazilian ports for future technological advancements. This is crucial for the evolution of port operations, signalling not only incremental improvements but also a potential overhaul in the global maritime industry. In summary, the research supports strategic port planning and calls for detailed sustainability reporting to reflect the unique activities of ports. It also identifies a gap in current reports, suggesting a direction for future research and the strategic inclusion of new technologies in Brazil's port development.

The study faced notable limitations in its execution. Primarily, the generality of corporate sustainability reports posed a significant challenge. These documents, while offering a global overview of corporate operations, do not specifically delimit the activities inherent to the port context. This intrinsic feature of the analyzed reports limited the ability to discern the technologies employed exclusively in the port contexts of the corporations in question. In this regard, it is emphasized that port administrators should develop sustainability reports that specifically focus on terminal operations, given their significant importance in the Brazilian economic and logistical context.

Additionally, the scope of the study's limitation to predefined technologies may have led to the omission of other relevant technologies that were not covered in the analysis. It should be noted that the investigation focused on data disclosed in sustainability reports and equivalent reports, excluding additional information available on websites.

In the realm of prospective academic research within the port sector, international comparative studies stand poised to furnish invaluable insights into Brazil's competitive positioning within the global context. Such a comparative analysis could encompass diverse dimensions, encompassing operational efficiency, sustainability, and the assimilation of emerging technologies. In doing so, it would offer foundational insights that could be instrumental in devising more efficacious and sustainable long-term strategies for the development of ports.

Author Contribution

R.J.S.R. Conceptualization; Data curation; Validation; Visualization; Writing.D.R.C. Conceptualization; Data curation; Methodology; Software; Supervision; Validation; Visualization; Writing.M.S.P. Conceptualization; Data curation; Methodology; Software.C.B.M.O. Conceptualization; Writing.S.S.C. Conceptualization; Writing.

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No competing interests reported.

Emerging Technologies and Sustainability in Brazilian Ports and Terminals: An Analysis of the Current Situation

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Abstract

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1. Introduction

2. Literature review

3. Methods

4. Results and Discussion

5. Conclusion

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Author Contribution

References

Additional Declarations

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