Maritime technology attention trends: Buzzwords, stability, and emerging patterns

This paper presents a systematic literature review (SLR) to differentiate between transient buzzwords and sustained technological trends in maritime technology by analyzing attention patterns over time. Using temporal data from academic publications, industry news, and EU-funded projects, we identify key trends shaping the sector’s technological discourse. Our findings indicate that alternative fuels, green propulsion, decarbonization, electrification, and automation receive sustained attention across research, policy, and industry, highlighting their long-term relevance. Artificial intelligence (AI) and smart ports demonstrate stable momentum, though policy engagement lags behind industry adoption. Green ports exhibit steady growth, reflecting challenges in infrastructure modernization. Automated identification system (AIS) Automated identification system (AIS) 1 1 In this study, AIS is considered a maritime technology, not merely a data source. Our classification is based on its technical composition — encompassing transponders, signal protocols, and operational infrastructure — and its strategic role in navigation, monitoring, and maritime safety. remains widely discussed as an established technology rather than an emerging trend. In contrast, blockchain and internet of things (IoT) follow hype cycles, experiencing sharp attention spikes before declining. Big data and cloud computing, while still in use, have transitioned from broad discussions to specialized applications, reducing their prominence in wider discourse. Digital twins sustain research interest but face slow industry uptake, while Port Community Systems (PCS) and synchromodality display inconsistent attention patterns, suggesting early-stage development. This analysis provides insights into how maritime technologies gain and sustain attention over time, helping researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders distinguish between fleeting hype and transformative trends in maritime innovation. • Identifies lasting trends vs. fleeting buzzwords in maritime tech via a literature review. • Highlights alternative fuels, AI, green tech, and automation for sustainable maritime growth. • Indicates limited long-term impact of big data, IoT, and blockchain in maritime logistics. • Suggests digital twins & synchromodality as promising but early-stage fields to explore. • Guides sustainable tech investments in maritime logistics with a research-backed framework.