Prof. Ulla Tapaninen, BALTIC-FIT project coordinator and Professor of Maritime Transport at TalTech Estonian Maritime Academy, recently shared her insights in an interview with Aboard, the magazine of the Port of Turku. In the article, “Ulla Tapaninen Challenges the Finnish Port Approach – From a Hub to a Playground for Innovations,” she discusses how ports can become active environments for digital and green innovation rather than serving solely as traditional transport and logistics hubs.
As maritime transport undergoes rapid digitalisation and a transition towards low-carbon solutions, Prof. Tapaninen highlights the potential of ports to bring together research, business and practical maritime operations. She suggests that universities, researchers, startups and maritime companies could use ports as testing grounds for new technologies and operating models through smaller-scale research projects, pilot activities and continuous cooperation.
The interview also addresses the importance of sharing research findings and practical experience across the maritime sector, as well as the need for Finnish shipping to explore opportunities beyond regional markets. Prof. Tapaninen points to the Port of Turku’s developing infrastructure and local innovation ecosystem as an opportunity to support new maritime solutions and international collaboration.
These perspectives closely align with BALTIC-FIT’s objectives of advancing maritime decarbonisation, strengthening research and industry cooperation, and supporting innovation in the Baltic Sea region.
Read the full interview in Aboard magazine: Ulla Tapaninen Challenges the Finnish Port Approach – From a Hub to a Playground for Innovations