Caya Hein, Project Leader – Green Transition & Agenda 2030 by AIVP, was invited by the Port of Charleroi (Belgium) to attend its Administrative Council meeting on the 29th of January. The aim was to present an overview of the current challenges faced by river ports and the good practices linked to the Agenda 2030 by AIVP specifically addressing river port city challenges. The Port of Charleroi had invited the other Wallonian river ports to attend the presentation as well, therefore the Port of Namur and the Port of Liège, both AIVP members, had representatives in attendance. The AIVP is always happy to provide our services and present findings from our network to our members and learn more about their local contexts.
During the presentation and ensuing discussion, the collaboration between the ports of Charleroi, Namur, and Liege was brought to light. Each of the ports has a different local, specialized industry and hinterlands which allow them to collaborate instead of compete. During a visit of the trimodal port of Charleroi on the 28th of January, Caya Hein was able to learn more about the work done there, namely handling and delivery via truck and trains. With a local industry specialized in steel production, the 350 m long hall stocks, handles, and ships many reels and spools both for regional and international clients. The port is also innovating continuously as 2 of its 7 barges are in the capacity to be autonomous.
The AIVP will be exploring similar subjects in more depth during its River Port Cities working group meeting in Sevilla (Spain) on March 5th and 6th. Over the two days, participants will be able to discover the Port of Sevilla and its many initiatives through meetings with team members and site visits. Indoor workshops will enable participants to discuss shared problems with their peers and contribute to solving them together.
