The Internet of Things in Ports: Six Key Security and Governance Challenges for the UK (Policy Brief)

TL;DR

This policy brief discusses the UK's strategic focus on integrating IoT, AI, and data platforms in ports to enhance efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability, highlighting key security and governance challenges.

Contribution

It identifies six critical security and governance challenges in deploying IoT in UK ports, emphasizing the need for regulatory support and strategic planning.

Findings

Ports are vital for UK trade, with 95% of trade passing through them.

Digitalization via IoT and AI can improve port efficiency and safety.

Security and governance are key challenges in IoT deployment.

Abstract

In January 2019, the UK Government published its Maritime 2050 on Navigating the Future strategy. In the strategy, the government highlighted the importance of digitalization (with well-designed regulatory support) to achieve its goal of ensuring that the UK plays a global leadership role in the maritime sector. Ports, the gateways for 95% of UK trade movements, were identified as key sites for investment in technological innovation. The government identified the potential of the Internet of Things (IoT), in conjunction with other information-sharing technologies, such as shared data platforms, and Artificial Intelligence applications (AI), to synchronize processes within the port ecosystem leading to improved efficiency, safety, and environmental benefits, including improved air quality and lower greenhouse gas emissions.