Green operational performance comparison of container trailers between traditional container terminals based on carbon footprint analysis

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of CO2 emissions produced by container trailer operations on the climate-warming environment and to calculate the different operating modes of cross-port trailers at container terminals. Design/methodology/approach This article employs integrated methodologies, including the carbon footprint (CF) calculation method and gray relational analysis. The “CF calculation method” primarily utilizes an export container operating trailer to transport containers from the container terminal based on an activity-based approach. “Gray relational analysis” mainly compares two traditional container terminal modes based on the operational efficiency assessment criteria. Findings The improvement of container trailer operational efficiency is related to factors such as transportation distance, speed limit, road conditions, loading conditions and operating efficiency and other factors. Research limitations/implications We analyzed the overall performance of the two container yard operation modes through a gray relational analysis of three key factors: operation time, energy cost and carbon emissions. The gray correlation ranking order is TT> RT. Practical implications From the perspective of CF, we can understand which operating modes can better meet the requirements of green port operations and provide improvement suggestions for achieving energy conservation and carbon-reduction targets. Social implications The empirical examination revealed that using enterprise ERP, big data, 5G and artificial intelligence algorithms can enhance the operating efficiency of container trailers and improve energy-saving and carbon-reduction outcomes. Originality/value The empirical findings provide energy-saving and carbon-reducing green transportation logistics operation alternatives and countermeasures for areas or operating models with higher carbon emissions, which can serve as a reference for future container terminals, trailer companies and government authorities.