Analysis: Getting round port congestion could create a deep carbon footprint

Photo: 76275687 © Krzysztof Janczewski | Dreamstime.com

One little-reported side effect of the congestion crisis gripping North Europe’s ports is its impact on local greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

The difficulties for deepsea container lines in loading and unloading cargo at the largest hub port, and the obstacles to shippers and forwarders collecting and delivering cargo, have been well documented.

One answer for carriers has been to unload European imports at secondary ports, where berth and yard congestion levels are lower and the vessel can turn around quicker.

However, an unintended consequence ...