Prevention of conflicts between klaipeda seaport and local communities based on eco-innovations

Abstract

Seaports are strategically important for the development of global, regional as well as local economy. However, nowadays, seaports are among the fastest growing industries, which in turn lead to a variety of coastal resource use conflicts and provoke strong resistance in communities adjacent to seaports. Currently, it becomes an increasingly important aspect of limitations and constraints for future seaport businesses growth. In order to reduce environmental impact, seaport companies are implementing eco-innovations to remedy the conflicts among seaport businesses and local communities. The present study is aimed at the development of a conceptual conflict management model regarding conflict prevention between seaport businesses and the society. The research was performed at three separate levels: technological process level, company level and across all businesses involved in the marine industry. The paper summarises knowledge gained during the research on reducing environmental impact using eco-innovations. The paper provides an analysis of the main causes of environmental conflicts in Klaipéda seaport and, by providing the analysis of environmental measures according to the proposed conflict management model, contributes to conflict prevention and remediation by involvement of eco-innovations.