The competition between the Finnish and foreign ports is tough. Since ports and logistics have important roles in Southern Finland, it is important to contemplate different factors and discuss how the ports’ competitiveness could be improved. The research need for this study originally came from one of the largest Finnish ports. It is widely known that despite the common EU legislation, environmental assessment and management processes in the ports vary greatly within the Baltic Sea region. There is no previous research regarding how environmental issues are handled and monitored in different ports.

Nowadays, incorporating environmental issues into port management is an integral part of

port operations. Ports can no longer avoid environmental concerns because of the increasing

amount of regulations to control port pollution, and intensified public debates. Furthermore,

there is pressure to increase services, modernize development and enhance economic

efficiency, so that ports can respond to the growing competition. In order to balance the

competing needs, the port operations must be managed in a sustainable manner. In

sustainable port management, the economic growth in is balanced with environmental

protection.

In addition to legislation, the ports’ environmental interest can be based on social and public

pressure, responsible operating culture, marketing and image enhancement strategies, or

competitive interests. Nevertheless, complying with environmental regulations produces costs

to the ports, as well. If those costs vary greatly from one country to another, it can have an

effect on the ports’ competitiveness. In addition, the environmental permit as well as

assessment and management processes for ports’ environmental impacts vary from one

country to another. The different methods in assessing and managing ports’ environmental

effects can influence the ports’ development and expansion plans, and also competitiveness.

The aim of this project is to enhance the competitiveness, environmental management and

competence of its target groups. The gathered information regarding the management of

ports’ environmental effects can be used to supplement future decision making processes. In

addition, by studying and learning from environmental assessment and management methods

in other countries, it is possible to improve the environmental assessment and management of

the Finnish ports.