News

As we bid farewell to 2023, Pro Danube reflects upon a year of significant achievements and looks forward to the challenges that lie ahead. A notable highlight of the year has been the warm embrace of new members into the Pro Danube network. WienCont, Mondoluka Plus, Kanzlei Anzböck, Donau Partner, and Novofer joined our association, bringing with them diverse perspectives, expertise, and a shared commitment to the sustainable development of the Danube Inland Waterway Transport (IWT) sector. 

Pro Danube actively engaged in expert groups such as the DINA and NAIADES Expert Group and the Rhine-Danube Corridor Forum Meetings, amplifying the voice of the sector at the transnational level. The imminent revision of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) holds significant implications for the Danube IWT sector, and Pro Danube's involvement ensured the sector's challenges were well represented.

Pro Danube has demonstrated throughout the years its commitment to fostering cooperation by maintaining strong ties with its European branch organisations. The synergies created through these alliances contribute to a unified and harmonised voice that effectively advocates for the interests of the Danube IWT sector.

 

The "Cooperative Fairway Management" initiative championed by Pro Danube underscores the importance of collaborative efforts among authorities. Beyond mere waterway improvement, securing adequate dredging works is critical for the economic viability of the sector. Pro Danube's commitment to addressing low water levels through cooperation underscores our dedication to making a meaningful difference. Therefore, we welcome the EU-funded FAIRway Danube II project, as it reinforces the significance of collaborative efforts and shared commitment to advancing the cause of adequate waterway infrastructure. As FAIRway Danube II is set to continue the successful path of its predecessor, Pro Danube emphasises the importance of maintaining an open dialogue among stakeholder representatives, authorities, and the business sector.

 

Pro Danube made substantial progress in projects like MultiRELOAD and the Green Inland Ports Study, emphasizing the pivotal role of ports in shaping a resilient, sustainable, and smart logistics network.

The Green Inland Ports Study aims to identify key factors influencing sustainable development within inland ports, proposing innovative solutions that align with both environmental and economic objectives. The study is set to play a crucial role in shaping policies and strategies to enhance the sustainability of inland navigation, addressing the growing need for eco-friendly practices within the industry. Pro Danube plays a crucial role in the Green Inland Ports Study, particularly focusing on the digitalisation of ports. Port digitalisation involves the application and integration of digital technologies to enhance various port processes, aiming to improve efficiency, streamline operations, reduce risks, lower costs, minimise environmental impact, and provide better services throughout the port industry and supply chain. Inland port digitalisation is seen as a transformative force, offering benefits such as increased supply chain efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. The adoption of cutting-edge technologies in ports is driving the transition toward digital and environmentally friendly supply chains, fostering innovation and contributing to a more sustainable future for global trade.

Moreover, Pro Danube is actively involved in the MultiRELOAD project, which brings together a consortium of ports, advanced technology providers, logistics and service companies, prominent European research institutions, and well-established networks. The project aims to facilitate a significant shift to sustainable transport, improve supply chain efficiency, and encourage capacity-sharing in crucial Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) corridors, with a specific focus on the Rhine-Alpine and Rhine-Danube Corridors.

Both projects offer promising solutions to the challenges faced by European ports. Their outcomes could potentially reshape the landscape of European port operations, delivering tangible results in terms of efficiency, sustainability, and overall economic impact.

Each edition of the event has become a well-established tradition - an occasion eagerly awaited by professionals, enthusiasts, and experts alike. This year's hybrid event, a collaborative effort by Pro Danube, the EU-funded Green Inland Ports, MultiRELOAD and SYNERGETICS projects, and with support from the Danube Ports Network, was a resounding success. The two-day event, held on 23 and 24 November in Vienna, provided a unique platform for participants to explore innovative tools and solutions geared towards achieving green objectives, sharing experiences, addressing common challenges, and staying updated on the latest industry developments. With a specific focus on the European Green Deal, the Danube Ports Days aimed to facilitate collaboration between public and private entities, fostering know-how sharing and feedback collection in pursuit of the ambitious climate targets enshrined in the European Green Deal.

The successful closure of the H2 meets H2O and PLATINA3 projects marks significant achievements for the European IWT sector. By embracing innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, these projects have not only addressed the immediate challenges facing the industry but have also contributed to a future where IWT is more environmentally conscious and resilient. Pro Danube's active participation underscores the importance of collective efforts in driving positive change, paving the way towards sustainable waterborne transport in the Danube Region and well beyond.

Looking ahead, Pro Danube remains dedicated to advocating for a robust IWT industry, recognising that climate neutrality is unattainable without inland waterway transport. Our focus on proper fairway maintenance and the crucial role of ports will persist as key elements in shaping the future of the sector.

  

As Pro Danube navigates through the achievements of 2023, we are ready to face the challenges of 2024. The year ahead promises continued collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to the sustainable future of inland waterway transport on the Danube. Together, we will chart a course towards a greener, more resilient industry.