## 1 Introduction  
Maritime transport remains the cornerstone of global trade, enabling the movement of approximately 80% of goods worldwide [1]. However, this sector is also a significant contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, accounting for nearly 3% of global CO\({}_{2}\) emissions [2]. Addressing this environmental impact has become a top priority for international and regional authorities, leading to a wave of innovative strategies aimed at reducing emissions. Recent trends in maritime transport include the adoption of cleaner propulsion technologies--such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), hydrogen, and ammonia--as well as operational measures like slow steaming and optimised routing [3]. These developments reflect a paradigm shift towards sustainability in the sector. As key interfaces between maritime and terrestrial transport systems, ports play a pivotal role in driving this transition. Beyond serving as cargo gateways, ports are emerging as centres for innovation and decarbonisation. Notably, major European ports such as Rotterdam and Antwerp have implemented shore-side electricity (SSE) systems, enabling vessels to connect to renewable energy while at berth and thus reduce auxiliary engine emissions [4]. The European Union has further reinforced this trend through the Fit for 55 legislative packages, which mandate the adoption of alternative fuels and zero-emission technologies in ports by 2030 [5]. Another transformative opportunity for ports lies in integrating marine renewable energy sources. Offshore wind farms--such as those near the Port of Esbjerg in Denmark--demonstrate how ports can harness local resources to achieve energy sovereignty [6]. In parallel, wave and tidal energy technologies are gaining traction as complementary sources alongside wind and solar, supporting diversified and resilient energy portfolios [7]. These efforts not only decrease dependence on fossil fuels but also enhance the energy stability of port operations, aligning economic priorities with environmental goals [8]. The implementation of such systems depends on access to accurate, localized meteorological and oceanographic data. For example, offshore wind energy deployment requires high-fidelity wind resource assessments based on historical records and advanced numerical modelling [9]. Similarly, optimizing vessel traffic and cargo handling requires real-time weather forecasts to minimize delays and operational risks. Recent advances in mesoscale meteorological modelling are enabling ports to predict and mitigate the impact of extreme weather events, strengthening their resilience and adaptive capacity [10]. This article examines these interrelated trends by exploring how regulatory frameworks, technological innovations, and meteorological tools are collectively reshaping maritime transport and port operations. Through case studies and global best practices, this study highlights the critical role of ports in the energy transition and their alignment with international decarbonisation goals. Additionally, the study underscores the necessity of decarbonizing port activities as a key driver of sustainability, emphasizing how energy sovereignty is becoming an essential consideration for port authorities. Given the existing infrastructure and the availability of marine renewable resources, the article also explores the need to assess the feasibility and potential of harnessing these resources. By integrating renewable energy solutions into port operations, ports can reduce reliance on external energy sources, enhance self-sufficiency, and contribute more effectively to the broader goals of carbon neutrality and sustainable maritime development. Section 2 of this article contextualizes the problem, highlighting the existing problems related to decarbonisation in maritime transport. Section 3 describes ports that require a transition to an emission-free model and outlines the prospects for future growth.