Bilgic, IsilayAkar, Caglar2025-12-152025-12-1520250892-07531521-042110.1080/08920753.2025.25908102-s2.0-105022934316https://doi.org/10.1080/08920753.2025.2590810https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14517/8594The evolution of port operations into fifth-generation systems highlights a commitment to sustainability, digitalization, and community integration. However, challenges remain in balancing economic efficiency and environmental and social impacts. In-depth case studies of eight significant international ports are combined with bibliometric analysis to investigate the transformative model of Fifth-Generation Ports (5GPs). The study identifies three interrelated pillars-digitalization, environmental sustainability, and socioeconomic integration-that build upon the development of port systems. The 5GPs framework is empirically supported by a bibliometric analysis of 410 Web of Science articles published between 2014 and 2025, which identifies intellectual clusters focused on smart port systems, energy transition, and governance. Uneven progress across the pillars is demonstrated by case studies of Shanghai, Singapore, Rotterdam, Antwerp, Los Angeles, Hamburg, Busan, and Long Beach. With automation and smart systems enhancing productivity and global competitiveness, digitalization emerges as the most advanced dimension. As demonstrated by Rotterdam's emission reductions compared to those of Hamburg and Los Angeles, which have faced persistent challenges, environmental sustainability exhibits quantifiable but uneven gains. The gap between port expansion and regional employment or demographic trends demonstrates that socioeconomic integration remains a frequently overlooked issue. These results demonstrate that simply evaluating efficiency metrics is insufficient to measure the competitiveness of port modernization; a balance must be struck between ecological responsibility and community well-being. The 5GP framework provides policymakers and port authorities with a well-organized roadmap. While highlighting the risks and best practices involved, this study acknowledges limitations in scope and highlights the need for further regional and longitudinal research. Ultimately, the transition to the 5GP signals a significant shift in maritime governance, with ports becoming hubs for resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban development.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/closedAccessFifth-Generation PortsLocal CommunitiesPort-City IntegrationSmart TechnologiesEconomic GrowthSustainable PortsUrban DevelopmentEnvironmental ImpactsBibliometric AnalysisDigitalizationArticle