This study investigates the integration of circular economy (CE) principles into port operations to address waste generation and resource inefficiencies, which threaten environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative analysis of operational data from 30 global ports with qualitative insights from 50 surveys and 15 stakeholder interviews. Key findings reveal a statistically significant correlation between CE adoption and improved sustainability outcomes: a 1-point increase in CE adoption (on a 0–5 scale) correlates with a 5.2% rise in waste reduction and a 3.8 kWh/ton improvement in energy efficiency. Regional disparities highlight European ports’ superior performance (mean CE score: 4.1/5) compared to Asian counterparts (3.2/5), driven by policy frameworks like the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan. Factor analysis identifies *policy alignment* and *technological readiness* as critical enablers, explaining 32% and 28% of variance in CE success, respectively. Case studies of leading ports (e.g., Rotterdam, Singapore) demonstrate the efficacy of waste-to-energy systems, industrial symbiosis, and digital tools (AI, IoT) in achieving up to 85% landfill diversion and 20% energy savings. However, barriers such as high upfront costs (cited by 70% of respondents) and regulatory fragmentation persist. The study recommends harmonized policies, cross-sector collaboration, and investments in smart technologies to scale CE adoption. By bridging theoretical and practical gaps, this research provides a roadmap for ports to enhance competitiveness while advancing global sustainability goals (SDGs 12 and 14).