PortalLite Towns: Logistics Distribution Systems With Unmanned Ports and Vessels in Archipelago and Nearshore Zones

The core of the "PortalLite Towns" concept is to establish a series of small, efficient logistics nodes in archipelago and nearshore areas, which will be equipped with automated light-weight container handling facilities, seamlessly connecting to regional central hub ports through unmanned docks and autonomous vessels, achieving efficient and sustainable cargo movement. It emphasizes the current turning point in the maritime industry brought about by climate change, artificial intelligence, and autonomous technologies, and considers how these technologies have the potential to revolutionize logistics and shipping efficiency. The scheme highlights the importance of integrating autonomous ships and unmanned ports, acknowledges the role of central hub ports in driving regional economic development, and shows how technological innovations can address global challenges, especially in improving port operational efficiency and promoting environmental sustainability, combining engineering advancements with maritime tradition. "PortalLite Towns" is an innovative maritime logistics model aimed at overcoming geographical and environmental constraints faced by traditional logistics through the application of the latest maritime technologies, simplifying transportation processes to enhance regional connectivity and economic development, especially transforming areas traditionally separated by water into accessible and liveable places. This model, with its automated lite ports, reduces reliance on human labour, improves equipment reliability, and enhances system efficiency and safety, while autonomous ships can navigate and carry out transportation tasks without human intervention. This not only helps improve logistics and trade efficiency in archipelagos, inland rivers, and nearshore areas but also plays a significant role in reducing carbon emissions and environmental impact. Furthermore, by reducing carbon footprints, improving energy efficiency, and promoting environmentally friendly transportation methods, this concept naturally supports clean energy production and sustainable fisheries. Advanced technologies that minimize environmental impact, such as electric propulsion systems and solar power operations, could be relied upon. This alignment with clean energy initiatives could extend to supporting sustainable fisheries by reducing pollution and habitat destruction, ensuring marine ecosystems are preserved, and fishing practices can be maintained without depleting resources. Additionally, infrastructure and logistics improvements in "PortalLite Towns" could facilitate the distribution of sustainably caught fish, reducing waste and improving the overall sustainability of the supply chain. This comprehensive approach to modernizing maritime and logistics infrastructure not only advances economic and social development in archipelago and nearshore areas but also contributes to broader environmental protection and sustainable resource management goals. This forward-looking logistics solution indicates a possible future direction for maritime logistics. Achieving this vision requires interdisciplinary research and collaboration, including experts in maritime technology, supply chain management, urban planning, and environmental science. The presentation calls for further research and practical exploration to validate the effectiveness of "PortalLite Towns" in real-world applications, especially in regions like Southeast Asia and Northern Europe with rich coastlines and numerous islands, and its potential impact on advancing maritime technology and promoting regional economic prosperity.