Share of port companies which are members of a (circular) platform in the port cluster

Indicator 5:

Share of port companies which are members of a circular platform in the port cluster

What this indicator measures

What kind of port companies do we target? And what do we mean by a platform, all kind of platforms of just these platforms who focus on industrial symbiosis, matchmaking or other services)? How different is a platform from an incubator (innovation services) and a lab?

Examples of circular projects can be found under Cases.

The measurement focuses on the port cluster. A port cluster can be defined as a "geographic concentrations of interconnected companies, specialized suppliers, service providers, firms in related industries, and associated institutions (e.g. universities, standards agencies, trade associations) in a particular field that compete but also cooperate” (Porter, 2000)

Link to a (sample) matching strategic goal

• “Circular use of raw materials between companies" (Port of Zeebrugge)
• "Actively promote cluster activities, especially in the field of the circular industry through networking, seminars and events" (Port of Oostende, Annual Report 2021)

How data are collected and managed

The total number of port companies is known by the Port Management Body (PMB) while the members of circular pltforms can be found via these platforms themselves.

Current limitations

The indicator does not consider the quality of results of the (circular) platform. A platform could have many members but if it is not managed well, it may not result in any useful output.

Where to start and the perspectives to improve

Indicator profile