Bremen and Bremerhaven are progressing with a plan to strengthen the resilience of their port infrastructure by adopting ‘State 7 – Resilient Ports’.
The framework builds on bremenports’ climate adaptation concept and sets out how the twin ports will prepare for escalating climate-related pressures.
Robert Howe, Managing Director of bremenports, said the ports remain central to the region’s economy and must be equipped for future risks.
“With the new strategy, we are creating the foundation to identify risks early and take targeted countermeasures,” he said.
The strategy outlines the primary risks facing the ports, including storm surges, heavy rainfall, heatwaves and potential disruptions to rail logistics.
Extreme weather can significantly impact port operations, prompting authorities to define several action areas – upgrading existing flood protection structures such as the Geeste barrage and the Stromkaje quay, ensuring adequate tug capacity during strong winds, adding berths for work vessels and designing port infrastructure to withstand heat and high water.
Measures to prevent backflow during heavy rainfall and to expand rail capacity within the port precincts are also planned.
Additional steps include shading and energy-efficient cooling for operational buildings, along with continuous monitoring of climate impacts.
“We are focusing on proactive risk management that combines sustainable practices with operational performance,” said Howe.
“Climate adaptation is not a one-off project, but an ongoing task that we are tackling together with all port stakeholders.”
Authorities plan to deepen engagement with terminal operators, shipping and rail companies, government bodies, and research institutions to coordinate adaptation efforts and share data.
Howe said collaboration and knowledge-sharing are essential to securing the ports as safe, high-performing and sustainable logistics hubs.
The updated strategy builds on Bremen’s first climate adaptation framework released in 2018 and refines earlier measures developed by bremenports for the Free Hanseatic City of Bremen.
