Leading the charge: Weifang Port sets the course for China’s green maritime future

China has reached a major milestone on its journey to sustainable development with Weifang becoming the country’s first zero-carbon port.

It is a major achievement which demonstrates China’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint in the maritime sector and offers valuable lessons for industry stakeholders, from port authorities to logistics companies.

Green innovation
Located in Shandong Province, North China, Weifang Port is the largest modernised multi-purpose port on the Yellow River Delta, handling dry and liquid bulk as well as containers, with an annual cargo handling capacity of 36 million MT. It is a major transit port for bauxite and a key provisional distribution centre for iron ore.

The port received its carbon neutrality certification in October 2024. That success has been driven by innovative green energy solutions including the construction of wind-power facilities, the introduction of hydrogen-powered vehicles, the promotion of electric energy alternatives, and the automation of key port operations. Certification came after the port connected its onshore wind-power project to the grid and launched an electricity-to-hydrogen initiative in September.

While many Chinese ports are advancing their carbon-neutral strategies, progress varies depending on local policies, technology, and stakeholder collaboration. For example, Yangshan Port, ranked as the world’s most efficient by the World Bank’s Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), demonstrates how operational efficiency can go hand-in-hand with reduced emissions. Similarly, Shanghai Port reduced container terminal emissions from 440,000 tonnes in 2020 to 326,000 tonnes in 2022 through shore power systems, solar energy and port renovations. However, local conditions have sometimes impeded progress. Variations in regional policies and funding priorities can delay the adoption of green technologies. For instance, the need for large-scale LNG bunkering infrastructure or shore power facilities in less-developed ports often conflicts with existing resource allocations. Achieving stakeholder alignment, particularly among upstream and downstream supply chain participants, remains a challenge for scaling green initiatives. Addressing these issues through enhanced policy support, carbon accounting mechanisms, and green supply chain financing is vital to ensuring consistent progress toward carbon-neutral goals across China's ports.

Dual benefits
Weifang Port exemplifies how decarbonisation can drive both environmental benefits and operational gains.

A 2022 study from the College of Transport and Communications at Shanghai Maritime University highlighted a strong connection between reduced emissions, improved throughput, higher productivity, and increased containerisation.

Lessons to be learned
China’s green port developments, including the groundbreaking progress at Weifang, offer valuable insights for the global maritime industry.

Innovation, collaboration, and policy support form the backbone of successful green port initiatives. Renewable energy solutions, such as wind power and green hydrogen, highlight the transformative potential of sustainable technologies in reducing emissions and improving efficiency.

But technology alone is not enough; coordinated efforts across the supply chain are essential.

Robust regulatory frameworks like China’s 14th Five-Year Plan for Green Transportation, which provide the necessary guidance and incentives, also play a pivotal role in driving the widespread adoption of sustainable practices across the maritime sector. By fostering innovation and collaboration, these frameworks lay the groundwork for a more sustainable and efficient future in global shipping.

“Green shipping corridors, focused on transoceanic and intercontinental routes, highlight the importance of low-carbon technology and established infrastructure,” Xu explains. “These developments also offer valuable insights for China’s transformation of coastal and inland waterways.”

Overcoming challenges, seizing opportunities
Transitioning to zero-carbon ports comes with challenges such as infrastructure upgrades, alternative fuel adoption, and compliance with evolving regulations. However, these obstacles also present opportunities for innovation, enhance efficiency, and cost savings.

The company uses electric and hybrid vehicles for distribution to help reduce carbon emissions and noise pollution. It also uses an intelligent logistics management system to optimise delivery routes, reduce vehicle mileage and thus reduce carbon emissions. By coordinating rail, road, and waterway logistics, GAC China minimises environmental impact and reduces ship waiting times. It also tracks and measures carbon footprints, collaborates with stakeholders, and trains employees on sustainable practices to solidify its leadership in green logistics.

For companies preparing to operate in carbon-neutral ports, understanding and complying with port-specific sustainability regulations is essential. Conducting a comprehensive sustainability assessment allows organisations to develop strategies that align with both regulatory demands and broader environmental goals. Equally crucial is fostering a culture of sustainability within the organisation. Employee training and education not only raise awareness but also ensure active participation in sustainability initiatives. Staying updated on advancements in green technologies and best practices is important to maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly evolving maritime industry as well.

“It’s vital for companies to embrace sustainability proactively,” Xu emphasises. “While adapting to these sustainability requirements may demand an upfront investment, the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs. Companies stand to gain through improved operational efficiency, enhanced reputations, and compliance with shifting regulations, positioning themselves as leaders in the transition to a greener future.”