Comparative study of the environmental footprints of marinas on European Islands

Ports have been key elements in Europe's economic development. This situation is even more relevant on islands, which are highly dependent on the maritime sector. Consequently, over the years, ports with diverse functionalities have been established both in mainland Europe and on its outlying islands. This article discusses the environmental impact of leisure marinas on European islands, especially as they are closely linked to economic development through tourism. The aim is to study the environmental impact of these infrastructures by determining the carbon and water footprints of marinas on European islands in the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. The results obtained enable the authors to make recommendations in order to reduce the overall environmental footprint of marinas on islands, considering that these territories are much more vulnerable to climate change than mainland locations in Europe.

Automated summary

Ports are crucial for Europe's economic development, especially on islands. This article examines the environmental impact of leisure marinas on European islands by analyzing their carbon and water footprints. The results suggest the need to reduce the environmental footprint of marinas on islands due to their vulnerability to climate change compared to mainland locations in Europe.