A. Stimilli, A. Benedetto, L. Mannini, A. Gemma

Pages: 325-344

Abstract
Transportation and logistics are relevant assets of modern countries and they represent a strong pillar of gross product and economic growth. In the last decades, this sector has extremely increased its market dimension, related operations and corresponding activities so that several issues occurred due to the frequent inadequacy of existing infrastructures and structures if compared to the new trends and needs. The paper gives an overview about the main elements, defining weaknesses and strengths, both from a management and operational point of view and from a building and construction perspective. One important strategy, herein discussed, to tackle these critical issues is the transition to digital models and the implementation of digital twin, with the final aim to investigate the so called “what if” scenarios and plan new projects. In addition, the paper mentions the main problems related to the typical physical constrains for the implementation of civil constructions at the interface between land and see, that is a vulnerable and critical environment. Finally, a very urgent and serious topic that is considered in the paper is the sustainability, analyzed in a “digital” perspective, under the note of Agenda 2030.
Keywords: logistics; maritime transportation; port infrastructure; smart port