About Us
The COST Action CA23138 PACT – Port City Territories in Action: A Collaborative Laboratory for Inclusive Energy Transition – tackles the critical challenges of energy transition in port city territories. Ports have historically been hubs for energy transport and transformation, particularly fossil fuels, and today play a key role in facilitating the shift to renewable energy. Located at the delicate intersection of sea and land, ports are vital to economic development while operating within fragile ecosystems. As complex spaces of social, cultural, and environmental interaction, they are uniquely positioned to drive sustainable, inclusive transitions that go beyond technological solutions.
Our Approach
PACT adopts a collaborative, value-driven approach to addressing the spatial and socio-cultural implications of energy transition. Through six key objectives – mapping, reframing, co-creating, including, envisioning, and transmitting – the project develops innovative methodologies for participatory planning and knowledge co-production. These efforts are tested through pilot studies in Le Havre, Livorno, Rotterdam, Lisbon, Limassol and Dubrovnik, which demonstrate new forms of cooperation between ports and cities. By inspiring and supporting other European port cities, PACT contributes to creating sustainable and inclusive futures
Our Objectives
Mapping: We gather and organize data to understand the spatial, environmental, and socio-cultural dynamics of port city territories. This forms a foundation for addressing energy transition challenges with a holistic perspective.
Reframing: We reimagine how ports, cities, and their communities interact, focusing on collaborative governance and inclusive solutions to support energy transitions and sustainable development.
Co-Creating: By uniting diverse stakeholders through workshops and collaborative activities, we develop practical, innovative strategies tailored to the unique challenges of port city territories.
Including: We ensure that all voices are heard, emphasizing the active participation of local communities, marginalized groups, policymakers, and industry leaders in shaping equitable and sustainable futures.
Envisioning: We craft inspiring, evidence-based visions for the future of port city territories, demonstrating how integrated solutions can support energy-conscious, inclusive development.
Transmitting: We share lessons learned, tools, and methodologies across Europe, enabling other port city territories to adopt and adapt innovative practices for their energy transitions.
About COST Action
COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology) is a funding agency for research and innovation networks. Our Actions help connect research initiatives across Europe and enable scientists to grow their ideas by sharing them with their peers. This boosts their research, career and innovation.
