Inland waterway transport (IWT) is one of Europe’s most energy-efficient freight modes, requiring far less energy per tonne-kilometre than road or rail. Yet, it still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Under the European Union (EU) commitment to climate neutrality by 2050, transitioning IWT to zero- emission (ZE) operation has become a key but complex systemic challenge. IWT system performance is shaped by fluctuating water levels, which affect navigability, vessel loading capacity, and energy consumption, as well as by infrastructure constraints and an ageing, heterogeneous fleet. Addressing these challenges requires an integrated approach linking multiple systems, domains, and spatial and temporal scales. A digital twin can provide such a framework by integrating logistics, infrastructure constraints, environmental conditions, fleet composition, operational dynamics, and energy systems. This enables stakeholders to assess operational, tactical, and strategic decisions within a consistent digital environment.

Addressing these challenges requires an integrated approach linking multiple systems, domains, and spatial and temporal scales. A digital twin can provide such a framework by integrating logistics, infrastructure constraints, environmental conditions, fleet composition, operational dynamics, and energy systems. This enables stakeholders to assess operational, tactical, and strategic decisions within a consistent digital environment.