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China, the world's largest dredging nation with over 2 billion cubic meters dredged annually, urgently needs tailored strategies for reusing those dredged sediments based on their physicochemical traits and pollution levels. The properties (grain size, pH, density, and conductivity), nutrient contents (organic matter, N, P, K), and heavy metal risks (Cu, Pb, Zn, Cr, Cd, Ni, Hg, As) of dredged sediments were investigated across 14 ports in China. Notably, 80 % of dredged sediments in China coastal ports are composed of silt. Significant variations in organic matter, nutrients, and heavy metals concentrations were observed. Environmental indices (m-ERM-Q < 0.5, I geo  < 1 and PERI <150) indicate sediment-associated nutrients & heavy metals pose low environmental risks, except for Cd and Hg, which are potential pollution concerns. This research offers insights into tailored strategies for managing dredged sediments and proposes resource utilization approaches, including wetland restoration, for practical application in China., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Following a fuel leakage inside a Portuguese maritime port, we conducted parallel 30-day experiments using contaminated seawater and fuel, sampled five days after the incident. This study aimed to (i)survey the native microbial community response to the spilled fuel and (ii)evaluate the efficacy of bioremediation, both biostimulation and bioaugmentation with a lyophilized bacterial consortium (Rhodococcus erythropolis , Pseudomonas sp.), in accelerating hydrocarbon degradation. Metabarcoding analysis revealed a shift in microbial communities, with increased abundance of hydrocarbon-degraders (e.g. Alcanivorax , Thalassospira). Ninety-five hydrocarbonoclastic bacteria were isolated, including key groups from the enriched communities. The lyophilized bacteria added in bioaugmentation, enhanced the abundance of hydrocarbon-degraders over time and were recovered throughout time. Bioremediation treatments favoured biodegradation, achieving over 60 % removal of total petroleum hydrocarbons after 15 days, contrasting with natural attenuation where almost no TPH was removed. This work highlights the potential of bioremediation technologies to accelerate hydrocarbon-degrading activity, for oil spills inside ports. [Display omitted] • Spilled fuel and seawater from a port were used for enrichment experiments. • Enriched communities were dominated by Proteobacteria and Bacteroidota members. • Lyophilized bacterial consortium enhanced the abundance of HC-degraders early on. • Bioremediation treatments favoured the biodegradation process (>60 % TPH removal). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early detection of invasive species is crucial to deal effectively with biological invasions in ports, which are hotspots of species introductions. In this study, a simplified end-time PCR methodology conducted on eDNA from water samples was developed for rapid detection of the invasive seaweed Asparagopsis armata (four hours from water collection to result visualization). It was tested dockside in four international Spanish ports in presence of stakeholders, whose feedback was obtained to explore the real applicability of this biotechnology. Although biological invasions were not a main concern for them, results indicate a unanimous approval of the methodology by the stakeholders, having detected the presence of A. armata in three of the ports. Stakeholders suggested further developments for easier application of the tool and multiple species detection, to be adopted for the control of invasive species in ports. • Ports are hotspots for the introduction of new species. • Biological invasions are most effectively treated with early detection. • A fast PCR protocol to detect species eDNA from water samples was developed. • Invasive alga Asparagopsis armata was found from three ports in <4 h. • Stakeholders evaluated positively this tool for rapid species detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ports receive a variety of contaminants related to a wide range of anthropogenic activities – including ship ballast water (BW) – that ultimately find their way to sediments. Benthic meiofauna from four Adriatic ports (Ancona, Trieste, Koper, and Split) was assessed for the main environmental pollutants, to evaluate the effects of human activities on meiobenthos and identify the most appropriate descriptor to assess the ecological quality of marine ecosystems. Sediment analysis demonstrated that Trieste and Split were the most contaminated ports, followed by Koper and Ancona. All meiofaunal parameters showed high spatial and temporal variability, in line with the marked heterogeneity of the four ports. Sand, total organic carbon, and pollutants seemed to be the variables that best explained meiofaunal patterns. Community structure and rare taxa were the meiofaunal descriptors that reflected the environmental status and biological response most accurately. The present data suggest that meiofauna can be used to assess the biological impact of BW. • All meiofaunal parameters showed high spatial and temporal variability. • Sand, total organic carbon, and pollutants largely explained meiofaunal patterns. • The meiofaunal community structure mirrored the disturbance gradients. • Meiofauna data add complementary information to assess the BW impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper is a contribution to the first initiative of the Port Baseline Survey (PBS) for Non-indigenous species (NIS) in the Mediterranean Sea. It presents a report on the soft-bottom macrobenthos from the five Adriatic ports: Bari, Ancona (Italy), Koper (Slovenia), Pula, Rijeka (Croatia), with a focus on the presence and contribution of NIS to native assemblages. Out of 451 species identified, only four were common to all ports. A total of eight NIS were recorded, five in surveyed ports and three in the lagoon connected to the Port of Koper. The highest number of NIS was recorded in Bari, and the highest abundance in Ancona and Bari. Generally, the number, abundance and contribution of NIS seems too low to cause a substantial impact on native communities in surveyed ports. The suitability of methods adopted for PBS for soft-bottom NIS was discussed and suggestion for methodological improvement is provided. • Soft-bottom macrobenthos were investigated from five Adriatic ports. • Contribution of Non-indigenous species (NIS) to native assemblages was discussed. • Contribution of NIS seems too low to cause a substantial impact on native communities. • The suitability of methods adopted for Port Baseline Survey for soft-bottom NIS was discussed. • Suggestions for methodological improvement are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ports are subject to a variety of anthropogenic impacts, and there is mounting evidence of faecal contamination through several routes. Yet, little is known about pollution in ports by faecal indicator bacteria (FIB). FIB spatio-temporal dynamics were assessed in 12 ports of the Adriatic Sea, a semi-enclosed basin under strong anthropogenic pressure, and their relationships with environmental variables were explored to gain insight into pollution sources. FIB were abundant in ports, often more so than in adjacent areas; their abundance patterns were related to salinity, oxygen, and nutrient levels. In addition, a molecular method, quantitative (q)PCR, was used to quantify FIB. qPCR enabled faster FIB determination and water quality monitoring that culture-based methods. These data provide robust baseline evidence of faecal contamination in ports and can be used to improve the management of routine port activities (dredging and ballast water exchange), having potential to spread pathogens in the sea. • Ports are faecally polluted. • EC and ENT abundance is higher in sediments than the overlying water. • Abundance of microbial pollutants varies considerably across time and space. • Patterns in faecal pollution appear to be related with salinity, oxygen and nutrients. • Molecular methods permit more rapid quantification of FIB than cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intense shipping traffic characterising the Adriatic Sea favours the spread of marine organisms. Yet, a study of 12 Adriatic ports (4 on the western side and 8 on the eastern side of the basin) found that non-indigenous species (NIS) accounted for only 4% of the benthic communities settled on hard substrates. The cirripeds Amphibalanus amphitrite and Balanus trigonus , found in 8 harbours, were the most common invaders followed by Amphibalanus eburneus , the ascidian Styela plicata , and the bivalve Magallana gigas. The highest percentage of NIS was recorded in Venice and Ploče, the harbours with the least rich native communities; the lowest percentage was retrieved in Trieste, Koper, Pula, and Rijeka, the harbours hosting the highest species diversity. In contrast, the ports of Bari and Ancona showed both high NIS percentages and highly diversified communities. • Harbours represent a suitable receptacle for non-indigenous species (NIS). • Fouling macrobiota were investigated from twelve western and eastern Adriatic ports. • Highest percentages of NIS were obtained where total Richness was low. • Biotic and abiotic factors are crucial in defining the vulnerability to invasibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidant treatment of ballast water (BW) is commonly used in BW systems in order to minimize the transport of alien species. The release of disinfection by-products (DBPs) associated to the treatment of BW and cross-contamination of butyltin (BT) compounds through BW discharge is a topic of environmental concern. A chemical port baseline survey has been conducted in seven ports of the Adriatic Sea. Analysis have been performed on transplanted mussels, surface sediment, seawater, BW. Results showed an evidence of BT contamination, particularly in sediments, probably related to their illegal usage or to intensive shipping activities. Therefore, BW may act as a vector and contribute to re-buildup of BT contamination in the coastal regions. A baseline set of data concerning DBPs is provided, showing the preferential distribution of these compounds in the marine environment that will be useful for future considerations on monitoring and assessment of chemical contamination associated with BW. • Chemical port baseline survey in seven Adriatic ports was carried out. • Butyltin compounds associated with transport of ballast water was studied. • Disinfection by-products associated with ballast waters treatment were evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Adriatic Sea is considered as a hotspot of marine biodiversity but, due to intense human activities (e.g. maritime transport, mariculture), it is also a recipient area of non-indigenous species (NIS). This study analyzed the scientific literature on non-indigenous macrophytes (NIM) recorded in ports, marinas and transitional waters (TWs) of the Adriatic Sea, in the period 1987–2018. The results show that 51 out of 118 Mediterranean NIM are found in Adriatic ports and TWs. The Venice Lagoon is the main Adriatic recipient area of NIM. Mariculture is the main vector of introduction, whereas the principal pathways of NIM dispersal are shipping and shellfish transfer. The largest group of NIM is of temperate northern Pacific origin. This study corroborated the fact that ports and TWs act as dispersal hubs and invasion hotspots. The importance of early detection of NIM at such sites should be considered in any environmental management strategy. • The Adriatic Sea hosts over 40% of the Mediterranean non-indigenous macrophytes. • Non-indigenous macrophytes show declining trends of introduction from the 2000s on. • Shipping and shellfish transfer are the main pathways of species dispersal. • Ports and transitional waters (TWs) act as invasion hotspots and dispersal centers. • Ports and TWs should be regularly monitored for an effective strategy of prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Characterization and assessment study was conducted for trace metals pollution in surface sediments at six sites including harbors, bays and river input along Lebanese coast (LCZ). A particular attention was given to Tripoli Port in order to identify the main sources of trace metals pollution inside this harbor. Total metals concentrations were compared with those reported for the shale. The results revealed that trace metals (Cd, Pb, Zn, and Cr) contamination was significantly localized at Beirut Port, which is classified as the most highly polluted site. At Tripoli Port site, metals contamination was classified as moderate; it is affected by shipping, ship maintenance activities and sewage outfall. According to the SQGs guideline, the biological adverse effect of Cd, Pb and Zn were expected to occur frequently at Beirut Port. The results obtained would be helpful in developing more effective harbor management strategies to control and monitor the metal discharges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Butyltin compounds (BTs) were used worldwide, especially because of their properties as biocides. Due to its high toxicity, the use of tributyltin (TBT) in antifouling paints has been prohibited in most countries. The occurrence and impact of BTs were assessed in surface sediments and in Stramonita rustica populations of two tropical estuaries that host major ports in northeastern Brazil. ΣBT concentrations ranged from < LOQ to 542 ng Sn g − 1 dry weight in sediments while imposex was not observed in S. rustica . This is in contrast to previous studies that reported high incidence of imposex at the same sites. Butyltin degradation index indicates recent input of TBT at levels that might trigger imposex in gastropod species more sensitive than S. rustica . These results emphasize the need of more rigorous controls by local authorities since Brazil has restricted the use of TBT-based antifouling paints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In general, Synthetic Indexes of sustainability have been applied to specific countries and regions. With some variations, the ones considered simple, such as the case of the Ecological Footprint (EF), have been applied to port areas. The same has not happened with those of a multidimensional nature (Global Synthetics) that still have a minimal and partial presence in the analysis of port sustainability. Understanding that this type of index represents an interesting and novel avenue of research applied to port systems, this contribution analyses and ranks a sample of 16 Spanish Port Authorities that group 23 ports of general interest using a Global Synthetic Index of Sustainability (developed using the four dimensions of sustainable development: economic, institutional, environmental and social). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research into the methodological development of alternative systems of sustainability measures is recent. In understanding sustainable development in a multi-dimensional sense, one of the most significant advances was the construction of Synthetic Indexes, applicable to different spatial spheres or to organisations, businesses, institutions, etc. The Spanish port system of general interest comprises 46 ports integrated in 28 Port Authorities, which in 2014 moved 482,000,000 t of goods and more than 28 million passengers. This gives an idea of its importance for the Spanish economy. Using a derivation of the procedure used to calculate the Port Sustainability Synthetic Index, in this research the analysis of the relationship that exists between the findings obtained for the economic and environmental dimensions is used. This enables the existence of links between ports and economic and environmental indicators for a sample of 16 Port Authorities of Spain to be verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ports are gateways for many marine organisms transported by ships worldwide, especially non-indigenous species (NIS). In this study carried out in North Iberian ports (Cantabrian Sea, Bay of Biscay) we have observed 38% of exotic macroinvertebrates. Four species, namely the barnacle Austrominius modestus , the tubeworm Ficopomatus enigmaticus , the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas and the pygmy mussel Xenostrobus securis , exhibited clear signs of invasiveness. A total of 671 barcode (cytochrome oxidase subunit I or 18S rRNA) genes were obtained and confirmed the species status of some cryptic NIS. Negative and significant correlation between diversity estimators of native biota and proportion of NIS suggests biotic resistance in ports. This could be applied to management of port biota for contributing to prevent the settlement of biopollutants in these areas which are very sensitive to biological invasions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biotic resistance is considered an important driver in the establishment of non-indigenous species (NIS), but experiments in the marine environment have led to contradictory results. In this context, a transplant experiment of fouling communities was carried out over five months. Settlement panels were moved from low impact (species-rich native communities) to high impact sites by NIS in two Italian areas to test the biotic resistance hypothesis. Fouling communities displayed significant differences among treatments before and after the transplant, thus indicating the maintenance of a peculiar fouling community in transplanted panels. On the other hand, newly recruited species were similar between treatments and neither a facilitation nor a mitigation role from native fouling communities on NIS was observed. Our results highlight the importance to better investigate the factors affecting the high variability obtained in experiments testing this hypothesis, with the aim to identify potential solutions for NIS management in ports. [Display omitted] • Native communities are likely able to combat NIS through biotic resistance. • A transplant experiment of fouling communities grown on PVC panels was conducted. • Panels were moved from "natural" habitats to ports to test the biotic resistance. • A strong biotic resistance effect was not observed. • Fouling communities on transplanted panels maintained a distinct structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of antifouling paints to the boats and ships is one among the threats facing coastal resources including coral reefs in recent decades. This study reports the current contamination status of diuron and its behaviour in the coastal waters of Malaysia. The maximum concentration of diuron was 285ng/L detected at Johor port. All samples from Redang and Bidong coral reef islands were contaminated with diuron. Temporal variation showed relatively high concentrations but no significant difference (P>0.05) during November and January (North-East monsoon) in Klang ports (North, South and West), while higher levels of diuron were detected during April, 2012 (Inter monsoon) in Kemaman, and Johor port. Although no site has shown concentration above maximum permissible concentration (430ng/L) as restricted by the Dutch Authorities, however, long term exposure studies for environmental relevance levels of diuron around coastal areas should be given a priority in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Analysis of the regulatory framework relating to solid waste management in Brazilian ports. [•] Comparison between European best practices and Brazilian structure. [•] Initiatives are suggested in order to improve Brazilian ports solid waste management regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The Great Barrier Reef’s biodiversity is under threat from multiple pressures. [•] Port and shipping activities are escalating, and present a new management challenge. [•] We review the impacts of ports and shipping on biodiversity. [•] We also identify principles to improve the governance of port and shipping impacts. [•] Change can avoid the Reef being added to the List of World Heritage in Danger. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Emerging booster biocides contamination raises particular attention in the marine ecosystem health. This study provides the baseline data on the occurrence of Irgarol-1051 (2-methylthio-4-tert-butylamino-6-cyclopropylamiono-s-triazine) in the selected coastal water around Malaysia. The maximum detected concentration of Irgarol was 2021ng/L at Klang West, commercial and cargo port. Coral reef Islands (Redang and Bidong) were relatively less contaminated compared to other coastal areas. The temporal variation revealed that only 1% of 28 stations sampled on November, 2011 was above the environmental risk limit of 24ng/L as suggested by Dutch Authorities, while in January and April, 2012; 46% and 92% of the stations were above the limit respectively. The present findings demonstrate the wide detection of novel antifouling materials Irgarol-1051 which advocates the need for proper monitoring and conservation strategies for the coastal resources. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We quantify and compare different measures of potential propagule pressure (PPP) of aquatic invasive species (AIS) from commercial vessels in Canada. We used ship arrivals and ballast water discharge volumes as proxies for PPP from ballast water organisms, and wetted surface area (WSA) as a proxy for hull fouling PPP, to determine their relative contributions to total PPP. For three regions studied, PPP proxies correlated significantly across ports and some vessel categories. Relative contributions of ship arrivals, ballast discharge, and WSAs to PPP, evidenced by non-significant correlations across these measures, varied across regions, ports, vessel types, and seasons. Flow-through (dominant on east and west coasts) and empty-refill (in Great Lakes-St. Lawrence region) were the major ballast water exchange methods employed by the vessels surveyed. These methods have different biological efficacy for AIS removal, influencing PPP. Our study illustrates benefits and limitations of using different PPP proxies to estimate invasion risk. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Water and surface sediment samples were analyzed for butyltins (TBT, DBT, MBT) from various ports along the east and west coast of India. The total butyltin (TB) in water samples varied between ∼1.7 and 342ngSnl−1, whereas for sediments it varied between below detection limit to 14861ngSng−1 dry weight of sediment. On an average Chennai port recorded the highest level of butyltins in the sediments while Paradip recorded the highest level of butylins in the waters. A fairly good relationship between the TB in the sediment and overlying water samples, as well as between organic carbon and TB, implicates the importance of adsorption/desorption process in controlling the levels of TBT in these port areas. In India the data on organotin pollution is very sparse; most of the port areas have been surveyed for butyltins for the first time during this study. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An overview of dinoflagellates cysts assemblage is presented as a trophic index for three monsoon-influenced estuarine and marine ports along the Indian coast. The cyst distribution (including harmful species) showed a trend of highest abundance and species number in highly eutrophicated estuarine (Cochin-south) followed by medium (New-Mangalore-central) and low (Kandla-north) levels of eutrophicated marine ports. The investigation revealed four new species in the region (Bitectatodinium spongium , Gonyaulax elongatum , Brigantedinium sp. and potential harmful species Blixaea quinquecornis -cyst similar to planktonic). Autotrophs dominance in the highly productive Cochin and New-Mangalore ports reveals that, in eutrophic systems, heterotrophs need not always be dominant. The indicator taxa (Polykrikos , Protoperidnium , and Lingulodinium) presence in high density indicated a eutrophic system. This study concludes cyst (species numbers/Fisher-α index/indicator species) as potential eutrophication proxies and emphasizes greater harmful-algal-bloom risks in the high trophic-index ports (Cochin and New-Mangalore). • Studied dinoflagellate cysts assemblage from monsoon influenced Indian major ports. • Cochin, Mangalore & Kandla ports formed high, medium & low level of eutrophication. • Cyst abundance & species richness increased with eutrophication (Eut) levels. • Autotrophic cysts dominance, diversity, species richness form potential Eut proxies • High-medium eutrophicated ports harbour more cysts of potential harmful species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fouling communities were studied in three port systems of Northern Tyrrhenian Sea (Western Mediterranean), focusing on the occurrence of non-indigenous species (NIS). For each port system two harbour types (large port and recreational marina) were sampled and, within each large port, fouling samples were collected considering two use destinations (commercial and touristic harbour). Among the 431 taxa identified, forty-two were alien or cryptogenic, four of which were new records for the study area. Harbour type and use destination shaped fouling communities and NIS assemblages, with their relative influence varying among different port systems. High fouling variability was detected within port environments and between different marinas. NIS showed the highest occurrence in large ports, in which the touristic harbour generally hosted the greatest amount. Therefore, the touristic harbours within large ports were identified as susceptible areas for NIS establishment and their possible subsequent spread at local scale through recreational maritime traffic. [Display omitted] • Fouling communities were studied in three port systems of Western Mediterranean. • A high spatial heterogeneity of fouling community was observed within port environments. • Different harbour types and use destinations host specific fouling communities and NIS assemblages. • The most susceptible area for NIS introduction is the touristic harbour within large ports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A new methodology has been designed to identify and rank the significant environmental aspects in sea ports. The main objective of the Strategic Overview of Significant Environmental Aspects (SOSEA) is to help port managers to identify significant environmental aspects and to reinforce the awareness about them in order to prioritise work in environmental management. Developed in close collaboration with port environmental managers and tested in a set of ports, it is a user-friendly tool that can be applied in approximately half a working day. It is based on ISO 14001 vocabulary and requirements and it can be considered as the base for the implementation of any Environmental Management System for port communities. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Port surveys are being conducted in Australia, New Zealand and around the world to confirm the presence or absence of particular marine pests. The most critical aspect of these surveys is their sensitivity—the probability that they will correctly identify a species as present if indeed it is present. This is not, however, adequately addressed in the relevant national and international standards. Simple calculations show that the sensitivity of port survey methods is closely related to their encounter rate—the average number of target individuals expected to be detected by the method. The encounter rate (which reflects any difference in relative pest density), divided by the cost of the method, provides one way to compare the cost-effectiveness of different survey methods. The most cost-effective survey method is site- and species-specific but, in general, will involve sampling from the habitat with the highest expected population of target individuals. A case study of Perna viridis in Trinity Inlet, Cairns, demonstrates that plankton trawls processed with gene probes provide the same level of sensitivity for a fraction of the cost associated with the next best available method—snorkel transects in bad visibility (secchi depth=0.72m). Visibility and the adult/larvae ratio, however, are critical to these arguments. If visibility were good (secchi depth=10m), the two approaches would be comparable. Diver deployed quadrats were at least three orders of magnitude less cost-effective in this case study. It is very important that environmental managers and scientists perform sensitivity calculations before embarking on port surveys to ensure the highest level of sensitivity is achieved for any given budget. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A methodology has been designed to assess the performance of the environmental management in sea ports. The Self Diagnosis Method, developed by two research teams and about sixty sea ports, allows the comparison of the current environmental situation with that corresponding to previous years and the assessment of the opportunities for improvement. The main objective is to review the management activities and procedures that affect the environment and the way the port authority handles significant environmental aspects. It has been designed as a “first level” tool: it can be applied in approximately six hours by a non-expert user. It is based on the ISO 14001 vocabulary, requirements and structure, and it can be considered as a first step in the voluntary implementation of an environmental management system for port communities. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Non-indigenous species are confirmed to be among the biggest threats for marine biodiversity. Among them, non-indigenous macrophytes (NIM) are well known to have local negative effects, especially in coastal ecosystems. Since transitional waters (TWs), ports and also marinas are recognized as very vulnerable coastal ecosystems, greatly subjected to biological invasions, the present study analysed the available scientific literature on NIM in such areas in the Central Mediterranean Sea (CMED), in the period 1970–2019. The analysis underlined that 27 NIM were recorded in CMED TWs, marinas and ports. Around 37% of them (10 species) are marked as invasive, while about 11% (3 species) are considered as potentially invasive. Maricultural activities resulted the key vector of introduction, while the primary pathway of NIM dispersion is related to maritime activities. The paper also discusses why in CMED TWs, marinas and ports, currently, less NIM were detected than in similar Adriatic areas. • 27 non-indigenous macrophytes in Central Mediterranean ports & transitional waters • Around 37% of them are invasive, while 11% are potentially invasive • Ports, marinas and TWs are invasion hotspots of non-indigenous macrophytes. • Non-indigenous macrophytes display a decreasing trend of arrival from 2011. • Maritime traffic and shellfish carriage are the key pathways of secondary spread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing coastal urbanization and shipping activity-related environmental pollution advocate the importance of assessment of port ecosystems. Fatty acid biomarkers, elemental components, and biopolymers were used to evaluate the composition of sedimentary organic matter and benthic trophic status of Kolkata (freshwater, enclosed docks) and Kandla (seawater, macrotidal) ports of India. The sediment fatty acid composition indicated relatively fresh and energy-rich organic matter of phytoplankton and bacterial origin inside Kolkata port than the outside riverine station and Kandla port. Biopolymeric carbon (BPC), used as an indicator of trophic status, revealed eutrophic condition in Kolkata port with high accumulation of organic matter of autochthonous origin, attributed to poor water flushing and input of anthropogenic wastes. In contrast, Kandla port was meso-oligotrophic, rich in bacteria, and terrestrial plant-derived materials. Such an assessment of ports' trophic status helps to evaluate the health of the ecosystem and in management practices. • Sedimentary OM sources from riverine and seawater ports were characterized using FAs. • Phytoplankton and bacteria-rich fresh OM in the enclosed, riverine port sediment. • Bacteria and terrestrial plant-derived OM in the macrotidal, seaport sediment. • BPC indicated eutrophic condition in riverine port and meso-oligotrophic in a seaport. • Benthic trophic status was influenced by the port structure and hydrodynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reviews and categorises ports' technical and operational measures to reduce greenhouse gas emission and improve energy efficiency. Through a systematic review, both measures in the portside including land transport, and in the ship-port interface, were identified and structured into 7 main categories and 19 subcategories based on 214 studies. The measures' characteristics, abatement potential, best practices and key issues were clarified. The results show that there is insufficient research on ports in developing countries, as research is centred on developed countries' ports. Furthermore, it is unlikely that any single measure may lead to port decarbonisation owing to varying abatement potential, complexity, and cost. Therefore, assessments of feasibility and effectiveness to identify the best combination of measures are vital steps forward. In addition to the highlighted fertile research areas, the result of measures categorisation is considered a tool for policymakers and a basis for researchers to verify future agendas. • Review of port technical and operational measures to reduce GHG emissions. • The review identifies 7 categories and 19 subcategories of measures • Port emission and energy consumption inventory approaches are presented. • Port renewable energy and energy efficiency measures are highlighted. • Abatement potential, key issues and best practices of measures are identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to compare anthropogenic impacts in three Mediterranean ports (Cagliari-Italy, Heraklion-Greece, El-Kantatoui-Tunisia) employing benthic macrofaunal indices, used in the context of the European Water Framework Directive. Sampling stations were selected within ports according to sector usage categorization and sampled over three seasons. Benthic indices calculated include M-AMBI, BENTIX, BQI and BQI_Family. Comparisons were made between the indices values and ecological status (ES) of each station within and between ports. Overall, few statistically significant differences were observed across different seasons or different stations with the same usage within or across ports. The ES of sampling stations in the leisure/fishing and passenger/cargo ships sectors was mostly "good" or "moderate", while the shipyard sector had "poor" ES. The results suggest that the indices used were suitable for assessing the ES of Mediterranean ports, led to comparable results even across different countries and contribute to the adaptation of specific port monitoring guidelines. • Ecological status assessment of three Mediterranean ports using benthic indices • Samples were taken from different port sectors with specific usage activities. • Port sector usage was the most important factor influencing the ecological status. • Sectors with similar usage had the same status even across different regions of ports. • Port monitoring recommendations based on WFD protocols are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollutant emissions from ships could increase with expanding international trade and shipping fleet size, posing a severe but often overlooked threat to public health. China houses the three biggest port clusters in the world: the Bohai Bay (BB), the Yangtze River Delta (YRD), and the Pearl River Delta (PRD) and must combat pollutant emissions. This study examines the emissions of key pollutants (i.e., NO X , PM 10 , PM 2.5 , HC, CO, SO X , CO 2 , NMVOC, and CH 4) utilizing a bottom-up methodology with the aid of automatic identification system data. Our results show that among the three regions studied, ships in the YRD produce the most emissions, accounting for 47.84% of the combined total emissions in 2018. We evaluate the emissions from different ship types, operation modes, and discharge equipment. Container ships account for ~50% of all emissions, which are mainly generated during the cruising phase. Different power sources produce varying levels of pollutants owing to power, load, and discharge variations. In addition, ship emissions have seasonal characteristics, which are reflected by the decline trend recorded in February, July, August, and December. This baseline dataset could aid comparisons with historic or future emission data and help establish regulatory actions to improve air quality. • Pollutant emissions from ships pose a severe threat to public health. • China houses the three biggest port clusters in the world and must combat pollutant emissions. • We examine the ship emissions of nine pollutants in the above regions. • Emissions from different ship types, operation modes, and discharge equipment are evaluated. • Ship emissions also have seasonal characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macrozoobenthic fouling assemblages were studied in the port area of Livorno, focusing on the occurrence of non-indigenous species (NIS). Sampling was carried out at ten sites characterised by different anthropic impacts related to their use destination. Among the 262 species identified, twenty-six were alien or cryptogenic, seventeen of which were new records for the study area, confirming the role of the port of Livorno as a hotspot of NIS introduction. Multivariate analyses highlighted a strong influence of the use destination on the diversity of macrozoobenthic communities. Even though the majority of transoceanic maritime traffic from and to Livorno pertains to the commercial harbour, the touristic harbour hosted the highest number of NIS, possibly because of secondary spread from other Mediterranean ports. The ALien Biotic IndEX (ALEX) identified all sites as high or good environmental status, but the large number of NIS detected suggests caution about their impact and further spread. • Macrobenthic fouling communities showed high spatial heterogeneity. • Port use destination impinged on assemblage structure. • The port of Livorno represents a hotspot of NIS introduction. • NIS distribution varied among different sites within the port. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]