Recently, the Green Economy Forum and Exhibition (GEFE) 2024 took place in Saigon from October 21–23, 2024, gathering businesses from around the world, all committed to advancing sustainability and green transitions. Among the highlights was the Netherlands booth, showcasing a wealth of sustainable innovations, particularly in port development and green infrastructure, with solutions tailored to meet the unique context of Vietnam.

STC: Building Tomorrow’s Green Workforce

At the forefront of the Netherlands’ contributions to GEFE 2024, STC showcased its specialized training programs, designed to empower Vietnam’s human resources in the port and shipping sectors. With a curriculum that aligns closely with international standards, STC is bridging the gap between current workforce skills and the evolving demands of green and efficient maritime operations. By equipping Vietnamese professionals with knowledge of sustainable practices and operational efficiencies, STC fosters a workforce that is not only skilled but also aware of the critical role they play in supporting environmentally conscious port operations and shipping logistics.

STC’s commitment extends beyond training sessions; the organization collaborates closely with leading companies to provide hands-on experience, ensuring that trainees are well-versed in the latest green technologies, sustainable practices, and global operational standards. Through its training, STC is paving the way for a resilient maritime workforce that will support Vietnam’s aspirations to be a regional leader in sustainable port development.

Driving Efficient Maritime Operations

Royal HaskoningDHV introduced its “health check” service for port infrastructure, which evaluates aspects such as governance, energy efficiency, decarbonization, and pollution prevention. Recognizing the pressing challenges posed by climate change, they focus on resilience planning for the next 50 years, assessing factors like rising sea levels, storm intensity, and rainfall. Through comprehensive adaptation planning, this service helps ensure ports are resilient against natural disasters by incorporating waste management and flood prevention systems.

Leading the Charge for Net-Zero

As one of the world’s largest port operators, APM Terminals aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, with a targeted 65% reduction by 2030. Their strategy includes lean operations, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and close collaboration with stakeholders. In Vietnam, APM is pioneering green transportation by implementing electric trucks, reducing carbon footprint across the supply chain, and offering sustainable options for cargo owners.

Pioneering Green Vessel Technology

Damen, another Dutch company, showcased advanced green vessel technology, including electric tugboats and hybrid ferries, such as a fully electric, 3D-printed autonomous ferry. Damen’s approach focuses not only on innovation but also on developing local talent through partnerships with vocational schools, equipping students with practical skills to support Vietnam’s emerging green workforce.

Streamlined Electrical Systems for Sustainable Ports

Royal Van de Leun presented a comprehensive energy management system for port operations. Having completed ten green projects, including hybrid and fully electric vessels, Van de Leun emphasized the importance of collaboration and workforce development to sustain green infrastructure. Through partnerships with educational institutions, they actively contribute to talent development by providing hands-on training.

Engineering Sustainable Solutions for Vietnamese Ports

Boskalis highlighted its innovative engineering solutions for sustainable port expansion in Vietnam, such as the Duqm liquid bulk berth project, where an 18-meter-deep polder was transformed into a large port basin with jetties and an entrance channel. This approach is particularly relevant to Vietnam, where ongoing sand mining in the Mekong Delta presents ecological challenges. Boskalis promotes sustainable alternatives that minimize environmental impact while providing robust port infrastructure.

Sustainable Warehousing Innovations

C. Steinweg Group, a leading warehousing company, shared its commitment to green operations by optimizing cargo transport and integrating solar energy in its facilities. Their energy-efficient cranes, operational since the 1990s, demonstrate their dedication to renewable energy, providing electricity back to the grid and supporting Vietnam’s energy transition. Steinweg sees potential for Vietnam to adopt electric barges, inspired by the success of sustainable inland transportation in the Netherlands.

A Model for Sustainable Port Development

Dutch companies demonstrated that sustainability can be deeply integrated into port infrastructure, with projects that go beyond emissions reduction to encompass water treatment, comprehensive energy transitions, and resilient construction. This unified, sustainable approach serves as a model for economic and environmental growth, establishing the Netherlands as a preferred partner for Vietnam’s green transformation.