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Last week, Pro Danube's General Assembly convened, marking a key moment for reflection, collaboration, and setting the course for the future. This gathering provided an extraordinary opportunity for our valued members to come together, celebrate past successes, and chart a path forward amidst the challenges that await us in the Danube Inland Waterway Transport sector.

At the heart of our discussions lay a steadfast commitment to advancing the cause of sustainable development, innovation, and cooperation. These principles serve as our guiding compass, shaping our initiatives and driving our collective efforts towards a future that is not only sustainable but also prosperous.

As we embark on this journey together, it is of utmost importance that we view challenges as opportunities for growth and transformation. Through unity and determination, we can navigate towards a more sustainable tomorrow, one that benefits our industry and secures its place as a crucial element of multimodality.

Pro Danube stands firm in its dedication to the advancement of Danube Inland Waterway Transport. If you are an enthusiast in this field and wish to be part of our community, now is the time to join us. Details regarding our latest accomplishments and our plan for 2024 are available here.

The fourth Expert Meeting on the Development of Ports and Port Operations organised by the Danube Commission on 12 March 2024, served as a platform for dialogue and collaboration aimed at advancing key port-related initiatives in the Danube Region and well beyond. 

Among the focal points of discussion were the two EU-funded projects Pro Danube is actively involved in: the Green Inland Ports Study (GRIP) and MultiRELOAD.

Geert Smit, from Ecorys, the organisation leading the Green Inland Ports Study, outlined its core objectives, focusing on assessing the environmental impact of ports, maximising the potential of digitalisation for sustainability, and exploring the integration of inland waterway transport into urban mobility and short-distance logistics. Notably, Pro Danube's leading role in addressing the thematic aspect of digitalisation underscored our crucial role in shaping the future of inland ports.

Meanwhile, the MultiRELOAD project shed light on the untapped potential of container transport on the Danube. Despite the Danube's strategic importance, container transport along its route remains underutilised. However, the MultiRELOAD study revealed a promising opportunity for growth. Even a modest 5% shift from road to inland waterways could result in a substantial 47% increase in freight transport along the Danube. This insight underscores the strategic importance of the Danube within Europe's transport network.

Finally, the official launch of the Danube Ports Days 2024 event within the framework of the meeting was met with eager anticipation from participants comprising of industry leaders, experts, and IWT enthusiasts. This event promises to be a platform for fostering collaboration, sharing insights, and driving innovation within the IWT sector.

The presentations are available for download on the website of the Danube Commission.

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Ever wondered about the unseen challenges hindering navigation on the Danube? Pro Danube is at the forefront of addressing this critical issue!

For the past decade, we have tirelessly worked to raise awareness on the navigational hurdles affecting businesses in the region. Our focus: insufficient water depths restricting full-scale Inland Waterway Transport (IWT).

Pro Danube has embarked on a data-driven journey, collecting detailed insights into depths and closures along the Danube fairway. This meticulous work has culminated in a comprehensive database, providing our Members with 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀.

By comparing past and current situations, we empower businesses operating on the Danube to understand the tangible impacts of dredging and maintenance activities. Ready to gain strategic advantage in predicting your business’s development?

Join Pro Danube and unlock the secrets behind these vital water depth developments – understand the past, navigate the present and chart the future of your businesses’ development!

The Danube Ports Days Event is back, promising another edition filled with innovative discussions, collaborative insights, and a focus on sustainability within the realm of ports. Building on the success of the previous years, this event aims to bring together industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts to explore the pressing questions that shape the future of ports and their impact on the environment.

Modal Shift and Eco-friendly Transportation 
Discover the commitments ports are making to drive modal shift. Explore eco-friendly transportation options within port operations and discuss strategies to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transport.

Emission Insights
Delve into the complexities of measuring emissions in ports. Understand how ports can contribute to a cleaner environment by monitoring CO2, air quality, and other pollutants.

 

Green Energy Solutions
Uncover the significance of green energy solutions in the IWT industry. Learn about the steps ports must take to facilitate and integrate sustainable energy solutions.

Event Details

Date: 29-30 October 2024

Location: Danube Commission, Budapest, hybrid event

Event powered by Pro Danube, the Danube Commission, the EU-funded projects MultiRELOAD, Green Inland Ports & Synergetics, and supported by the Danube Ports Network.

Mark your calendars, whether you plan to join us in Budapest or participate virtually. Danube Ports Days 2024 promises to be a platform for insightful discussions, fostering collaboration and innovation to facilitate sustainable port operations. Prepare to engage in conversations that will shape the future of ports and sustainability! Stay tuned for updates and registration details!