Energy consumption and emissions analysis of large container seaports considering the impact of COVID-19: A case study of Ningbo Zhoushan Port

Ports play critical roles in modern society as they connect water and land transportation and integrate transportation with energy systems, leading to high demand of various types of energy and emissions from various sources. Based on high quality of data from the ports authority, energy consumption characteristics of cargo handling equipment and ships in Chuanshan Port Area of Ningbo Zhoushan Port are analyzed. Besides, emissions of cargo handling equipment and ships are evaluated using fuel-based top-down and activity-based bottom-up methods, respectively. Moreover, as a reflection on the impact of COVID-19 on ports, energy consumption patterns indicate the resilience of port operation. The results reveal different energy requirement of various types of energy resources and show that container trucks, rubber-tire gantry and berthed ships are main sources of several kinds of emissions in the considered port. The findings of this study are significant in providing support for port authorities to adopt measures towards achieving a green and sustainable port.