On flexibility and sustainability in container ports

The aim of this paper is to link flexibility and sustainable advantages together in the context of container harbors. First, a definition of the flexibility concept, its dimensions and metrics are given; second, a discussion of the relation between flexibility, multimodality and sustainability is conducted. It is argued that multimodal transportation adds value into the whole supply chain and thus is an enabler for flexibility. However, there is an increase in environmental challenges which should be addressed proactively throughout the whole supply chain. Third, some measures that increase the container port´s sustainability are described; and last, the case of Narvik container harbor is outlined.