About safari

Key Challenges and Objectives

European ports play a crucial role in facilitating international trade, connecting regions, and contributing to economic growth and development. However, they are exposed to multiple risks and vulnerabilities that can impact their operations, functionality, and efficiency.
OUR MISSION

Safe and Climate Resilient Ports

The goal of the SAFARI project is to develop a versatile digital platform to enhance port infrastructure resilience against extreme weather events. This platform will connect large port communities by establishing strong communication channels between port stakeholders and infrastructures. It will be equipped with emergency management modules, supported by operational, maintenance, and analytical components.
our objectives

Maintain Port Operations

Ensure that port operations continue at 80% capacity during disruption periods.

Optimise Transport Assets

Optimise transport assets for a 20% cargo shift, reduced environmental impact, and minimized downtime during extreme weather

Enhance Resilience Measures

Strengthen existing port infrastructure against extreme weather events.

Ensure Safety and Biodiversity

Guarantee the safety of personnel and vessels while protecting biodiversity.

Develop a Governance Model

Build a governance model and guidelines to address climate risks and hazards for port infrastructure.
CHALLENGES AND RISKS

What are the reasons?

This last decade, Europe has experienced various extreme weather events, including storms, heavy rainfall, coastal flooding and heatwaves. These events can disrupt port operations, damage infrastructure, and lead to safety concerns for vessels and personnel.

The percentages of economic losses arising from direct damages to infrastructure and operational disruptions across interconnected global supply chains due to extreme weather events can vary significantly based on the specific event, the affected region, the severity of the event, and the resilience measures in place. Therefore, the SAFARI project will help address several key challenges associated with extreme weather events impacting port infrastructure and operations,
01.  Economic Losses
Direct damages to infrastructure and operational disruptions across interconnected global supply chains can lead to significant economic losses. These losses can range from 10% to 40% for direct damages and 20% to 60% for operational disruptions, depending on the severity and duration of the events.
02.  Supply Chain Disruptions
Delays, reduced productivity, missed market opportunities, and increased transportation costs are critical issues arising from extreme weather events.
03.  Climate Change Impact
Nearly 90% of major global ports are exposed to damaging climate hazards, such as sea-level rise, which are projected to increase due to climate change. These long-term effects require innovative and adaptive solutions.
04. Stakeholder Coordination
Effective response and resilience building require coordination among diverse stakeholders including port authorities, shipping companies, and local communities.
05. Technological Innovation
Developing and implementing cutting-edge monitoring and predictive technologies to enhance resilience and prevent structural failures.

What could be the solutions?

Ensuring the resilience of port infrastructure is essential to maintain the continuity of maritime trade, safeguarding the flow of goods and services even under adverse circumstances.

SAFARI’s pilot demonstrations for resilient infrastructure will serve as valuable learning experiences that inform decision-making for larger-scale infrastructure assets.
EXPLORE PORTS

Project Coordinator

Rochdi Merzouki (Université de Lille) rochdi.merzouki[at]polytech-lille.fr