The Port of Newcastle is the first port in the Australia and New Zealand region to subscribe to the EcoPorts initiative.
The port was this month granted membership of the International EcoPorts network, having completed rigorous assessments to benchmark its environmental and sustainability practices against 120 major ports across Europe, Asia, North America and South America.
Since its inception in 1997, EcoPorts has aimed to raise awareness on environmental protection through cooperation and sharing of knowledge between ports and improve environmental management.
Since then, ports and terminals from 43 countries have become EcoPorts members.
Port of Newcastle Environmental Adviser Jackie Spiteri said the move constitutes part of the organisation’s commitment to continuous improvement as a resilient and sustainable port.
“The Port of Newcastle are committed to managing the environmental impacts of our port operations and also developing the Port in a sustainable manner,” Ms Spiteri said.
“We are committed to aligning our current processes to this globally recognised standard and accreditation, and also engaging with other ports to share this opportunity, for them to sign up to the network.”
It comes as Port of Newcastle confirmed its intention to further expand automation and electrification of the port in an effort to improve efficiency, reduce emissions and minimise its environmental impact.
The port’s $33 million Newcastle Bulk Terminal upgrade – which features a new ship unloader with state-of-the-art crane and conveyor infrastructure – is one example of how the organisation is committed to the latest in safety and environmental compliance.
The port is also continuing to reduce fuel, power and water consumption across its operations in order to reduce its environmental impact.
Ms Spiteri said that the Port’s next step is to seek EcoPorts accreditation. “This is an independent review and certification provided by Lloyd’s Register.
“All of this is just one way that we can ensure that the Port of Newcastle continues to be a resilient, divers and sustainable port for the future.”
