Abstract

This study investigates the effect of green shipping practices, specifically green suppliers and green procurement, on cost reduction in shipping companies operating in Rivers State, Nigeria. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design and census sampling technique; structured questionnaires were administered to 160 managerial staff across 20 functional shipping firms, with 134 valid responses retrieved (83.75% response rate). Data reliability was established using Cronbach’s alpha (overall α = 0.8464). Multiple regression analysis revealed that green suppliers have a positive but statistically insignificant effect on cost reduction (β = 0.030, t = 0.971, p = 0.812 > 0.05), while green procurement demonstrates a positive and significant influence on cost reduction (β = 0.028, t = 2.310, p = 0.007 < 0.05). These findings indicate that green procurement contributes meaningfully to operational cost reduction through efficient resource utilization and waste reduction, supporting the adoption of sustainable practices in the maritime sector. The study recommends that shipping companies prioritize green procurement strategies and calls for supportive government policies to enhance the implementation and economic benefits of green shipping initiatives in developing economies