V3I5P47

The Impact of Sustainability Practices and Operational Efficiency in Container Terminal Operation

Samuel Antony A¹, Dr. G . Mathumita^2*

Abstract

Container terminals are central players within international supply chains and are under increased pressures to simultaneously enhance operational efficiencies and lower their environmental footprint. In this research paper, we analyse the connection between sustainability initiatives and operational efficiency in container terminal operations through a case study on a large-scale private container terminal operating at an emerging market port on the south coast of India. Using a combination of structured field observations in seven operational zones as well as five years of secondary data collected from the port authority, we highlight the tangible benefits from sustainable technology implementation and the operational cost of unsustainable practices. Major observations include stable yard crane productivity at 29 moves per crane per hour during a period of 23.8% growth in vessel traffic without a truck appointment system and without electrification of Internal Transport Vehicles. Despite container throughput at a five-year high of 8,66,232 TEUs during FY 2025-26, there is a 14.5% increase in vessel turnaround time and 28.2% reduction in ship berth-day output, which is largely attributed to sustainability failures. Ten strategic suggestions have been made for a phased green/efficiency plan that is relevant for similar emerging market container terminals around the world.

Keywords:

Efficiency of container terminals, green port management, sustainability management practices, electric RTG cranes, turnaround time, Truck Appointment System, emerging market ports, shore power, yard automation