Port resilience tool launches as climate risks mount

Framework targets gaps in how ports assess their ability to withstand shocks.

A new self-assessment framework launched at the 31st Conference of the Parties aims to help ports measure and strengthen their resilience to climate change and other emerging risks.

The Resilience4Ports (R4P) Port Resilience Indicator Guidance addresses a gap in the sector, where ports have been taking action to address climate risks but lack a consistent way to assess their ability to withstand and adapt to shocks and stresses.

The indicators are designed to help ports identify gaps, prioritise investments, monitor progress, and demonstrate resilience outcomes over time.

“Many port owners and operators struggle to understand what resilience looks like in practice and how progress can be measured,” said Dr Darshana Godaliyadde, Director of R4P.

The self-assessment tool was co-developed by the International Coalition for Sustainable Infrastructure and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, with input from the R4P Community of Practice and industry experts.

It assesses resilience across five interconnected dimensions: Assets and Operations, Governance and Institutions, Finance and Investment, People and Communities, and Coastal and Marine Ecosystems.

The framework aims to help ports move beyond infrastructure-focused approaches towards integrated and long-term resilience planning.

Godaliyadde said resilience also requires effective governance, sustainable financing, strong partnerships, healthy ecosystems, and empowered communities.

The framework supports objectives including improved decision-making, investment planning, stakeholder engagement, adaptation strategies, and alignment with international climate frameworks.

It was developed through consultation and pilot testing across Europe, Southeast Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.

It incorporates global best practices whilst remaining flexible enough for ports of different sizes, governance arrangements, and development contexts.

The indicators can also help ports communicate resilience performance to investors, insurers, regulators, and development partners.

It also supports alignment with international agendas, including the Paris Agreement, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the emerging Global Goal on Adaptation.

Climate-related disruptions already put an estimated $122b of economic activity at risk annually across 1,320 selected ports.