The thesis focuses on the analysis of the sustainability reports of three different ports, which, to varying degrees, leave an impression on the economy, society, and environment of the European continent. The selected ports are the Slovenian port of Luka Koper, the Belgian port of Antwerp and, last but not least, the largest European port of Rotterdam, which is located in the Netherlands.
Ports are important junctions for different logistics systems as well as cultures. Road, rail, and maritime traffic meet here, where transshipment operations with cargo are carried out and where passengers can board and disembark. They are located on the seacoast or in the interior of the continent, from where they have a connection to the sea via rivers or canals. It is extremely important, since more than half of the world's trade in goods, by value, passes right through the port.
Sustainable development is a concept of development where meeting the needs of society today does not threaten meeting the needs of future generations. In the maritime industry, it primarily means guaranteed safe, efficient, and reliable transport of goods, and at the same time reduced impact on the environment and increased efficiency of resources. Sustainable development consists of three pillars. These pillars are the environmental pillar, the economic pillar, and, last but not least, the social pillar of sustainable development. The cultural pillar, which has not stagnated enough in sustainable development, is gaining more and more importance.
With a sustainable report companies or organizations voluntarily and transparently draw attention to their performance, impact – positive or negative – and contribution to the sustainable development of its stakeholders, employees, customers and others. A sustainable report helps to improve the management of the organization and communication, strengthens a sense of belonging and reputation, and improves financial relations.
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