Halifax Port Authority (HPA) has partnered with BlueNode, Inc., PSA Global, Port Saint John, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster and Sentient Hubs to implement an AI platform for near real-time monitoring of emissions for effective CO2e mitigation strategies. Evidence-based approaches include route and asset optimization, asset replacement enhancement, trade corridor planning and risk management. This is achieved through effective data collection and analysis.
The project improves CO2e measurement by integrating data from cargo handling and transport, operations, and other factors in an accurate and interoperable system. The project builds an assessment of CO2e intensity associated with operations showing “per container” and “per tonne” amounts of carbon. It involves several international partners including the Port of Cork in Ireland. Common and open approaches to data analysis will be conducted so comparable carbon intensity can be measured and attributed between ports for the first time.
The machine learning and monitoring approach can provide prescriptive recommendations on asset and equipment replacement based on emissions-to-effort ratios, countering the operational reality that as equipment ages, emissions increase while utility decreases. The approach designed by BlueNode and HPA has great potential as a carbon reduction tool and can play an important role in achieving UN SDGs including 9, 11, 12, and 13.
The main objectives of the project include:
- Implement a software platform to provide near real-time baseline analysis of CO2e intensity.
- Monitor operational, seasonal and other variances to mitigate CO2e intensity.
- Establish a baseline CO2e footprint in identified trade corridors.
- Provide regular reporting on CO2e intensity to assist in operational and strategic decisions through user-identified dashboards and other analysis.
- Create a common data framework for data sharing, compliance, and other reporting.
- Complete prescriptive models for CO2e intensity reduction decision-making while maintaining and improving a resilient and effective supply chain.