Sophie Broere, TU Delft & Erasmus University, & SmartPort, Rotterdam

Tim Meijster, TU Delft & Erasmus University

Abstract

In this contribution we will give an overview of Port of Rotterdam innovation ecosystem. We will discuss the role of SmartPort and AI Port Center in the research and innovation activities related to the port ecosystem. We will also give some insight into the instruments they use and possibilities to work together on research and innovation internationally.

Next we will discuss some of the key developments that have been happening in the Rotterdam area with respect to AI and Digitalization. The maritime and port industry is undergoing (rapid) transformation both related to and driven by digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI). AI Port Center and its many partners in the Rotterdam Port, investigate together how AI can enable smarter, more sustainable port ecosystems while faced with challenges like the energy transition, modal shifts, and operational resilience.

We will share some examples of AI-enabled systems, such as digital twins, edge AI, and generative/agentic AI, that might support transitions and make the Port of Rotterdam more efficient in competitive. We will touch upon topics like carbon reduction strategies, showing some anticipated results of the Port Call Zero project. We look how digital technology and AI may impact the future of work in the Port. We will discuss several real-world examples and catalyzer projects initiated by the AI Port Center. For example, on disruption management through hybrid simulation and optimization models and synchromodal transport planning and on the use of LLM in the marine industry to preserve maritime engineering knowledge with AI and explore GenAI potential.

This session will address foundational aspects like data quality, data sharing mechanisms and federated learning and show examples on how we facilitate this, for example through development of the port call datahub. We will also briefly touch upon topic related to explainability of AI (XAI) and responsible use of AI, which are both key criteria for successful AI adoption.

This talk aims to inspire collaboration between industry, academia, and policymakers to harness AI for operational efficiency, sustainability, and resilience in the port ecosystem.

Bio:  Sophie Broere

Sophie is Innovation Manager AI, Ports and Maritime at TU Delft and Project Developer Smart Logistics at SmartPort, where she leads initiatives that drive digitalization and sustainability across the port and logistics sector. With a foundation in civil engineering and early experience in a sustainability‑focused start‑up, she combines technical expertise with an entrepreneurial mindset. Her work centers on sustainable logistics, AI adoption, and the integration of advanced technologies into real‑world maritime operations. By connecting academic research with industry challenges, she helps shape smarter, cleaner, and more resilient logistic & port operations for the future.

Bio: Tim Meijster

Tim works as an Innovation Manager Artificial Intelligence at the Delft University of Technology. In his role he brings together his experience working over 20 years in (digital) innovation in both academic & applied research and corporate environment. In his current role he identifies opportunities of AI, and drives change by building public-private partnerships. One of his key strengths, developed through his work in different professional environment, is to bring solutions from (scientific) concept to deployed product. Tim works across various technology and industry domains with a focus on Port & Maritime and High-tech industry. Besides his work as an Innovation Manager, Tim is also a passionate entrepreneur, with his company he realizes solar-energy project in Ghana for SME’s and public institutions.