Barriers and solutions for sustainable development of inland waterway transport: A literature review

Abstract

Inland waterway transport (IWT) is recognized by its social, environmental, and economic advantages if compared with other transportation means. Nevertheless, several barriers have been identified which require the implementation of solutions that lead to the sustainable development of IWT. After reviewing the literature, this paper presents a framework of barriers and solutions for the sustainable development of IWT. The data were classified within the main elements of the IWT system: ports, fleet, and waterway, and subsequently grouped into one of the five proposed factors (governance and policies, management, operational, infrastructure and technology, and human resources). The basis for the enhancement of IWT is the attitude and change of mindset of governments towards IWT development. From there, several solutions can be implemented, such as policies that stimulate IWT growth aligned with the environmental requirements of each basin and encourage the private sector to take part in the search for alternatives in Favor of IWT development as a reliable, sustainable, and economically viable means of transport.

Keywords

• Inland waterway transport
• Sustainable development
• Sustainability
• Barriers
• Solutions