PEMA Drives the Future with Green Technology and Sustainable Solutions
Conversation at TOC Europe 2025
The Port Equipment Manufacturers Association (PEMA) was one of many proud exhibitors in attendance at TOC Europe 2025 this June in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. For PEMA, the exhibition once again proved to be an invaluable platform for networking and industry engagement, and with participation from more than 200 exhibiting companies representing a truly global footprint, the event fostered meaningful dialogue, strengthened existing partnerships, and facilitated new connections across the maritime industry.
PEMA’s stand at TOC Europe 2025 provided a valuable hub for visitors acquiring membership information, technical committee news, information papers, publications, market surveys and report updates, as well as a platform for networking.
To celebrate the opening day of TOC Europe 2025, PEMA warmly welcomed its valued members to its annual drinks reception exclusive only to members. The evening offered both a relaxed and sociable atmosphere for attendees to reconnect with familiar faces, forge new connections, and extend a warm welcome to recently joined members all while enjoying a selection of refreshments and drinks ahead of a busy but productive exhibition week.
‘A Conversation with PEMA’: President Achim Dries joins Paul Avery of World Cargo News
Another highlight of the week was PEMA President Achim Dries’ taking the TECH TOC stage on the final day of the exhibition, where he joined Paul Avery of World Cargo News for a compelling dialogue on the shifting landscape of green technology and sustainable energy within the port and terminal sector, as well as how PEMA has a public voice on behalf of its members to politically consider the current economic climate, trends and demands. Their expert platform and thought-provoking discussion delved into the transformative impact of automation, electrification, and forward looking energy solutions on operational performance and emissions reduction, while other parts of the conversation were led with insight into the topic of tariffs and current world affairs.
They began their conversation on the topic of cybersecurity, where President Dries emphasised that in today’s landscape, it is a given that cybersecurity must be considered from the very start of the research and development phase of designing new equipment, “There are standards existing with the need to be included in the design process of R&D. This is to be designed against robust attacks.” This is especially true for companies designing machinery such as spreaders, which are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats as technology advances. Mr. Dries shared news that this information paper covering the topic of cybersecurity will be published by PEMA this summer.
The conversation then turned to the emergence of battery powered equipment. President Dries noted that the adoption of these technologies in port terminals significantly alters traditional risk assessments, as battery fires require a completely different response than those involving diesel engines. He stated, “They have to have a different layout of the terminals, to make sure they can really handle a fire. You cannot just take existing fire protection systems and ask the fire brigade to help, even there, there is still a lack of competency,” highlighting that this transition demands careful planning and major adjustments.
The President also referenced PEMA’s previous work on this issue, noting that during the association’s recent AGM in Gdańsk, an expert presentation addressed the necessary measures for managing battery fires effectively.
This discussion which explored several pressing issues currently facing the industry concluded with President Achim highlighting PEMA’s heightened presence, and the continuation of leading engaging conversations, strengthening industry ties and the promise and commitment for the future of advancing port equipment, safety, and technology.
He also reminded current members in attendance to register for PEMA’s Autumn Meeting taking place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on November 17 – 19 2025. Register now at www.pema.org. Meanwhile he encouraged non-members in attendance in the TECH TOC Theatre to get in touch with the PEMA administration team at info@pema.org for more information on membership.
TOC Europe 2025 proved to be a resounding success for networking, and offering valuable opportunities for industry. PEMA looks forward to continuing the momentum and reconnecting with industry colleagues next year, this time in Hamburg.
About PEMA
Founded in 2004, PEMA (Port Equipment Manufacturers Association) provides a forum and public voice for the global port equipment and technology sectors. The association has seen strong growth in recent years and now has 120 member companies representing all facets of the industry including crane, equipment and component manufacturers, automation, software and technology providers, consultants, and other experts. Learn more at www.pema.org
