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

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.