New South Wales Ports has announced it will sponsor the Australian Logistic Council’s (ALC) Supply Chain Summit, which has a focus on enhancing the sustainability, efficiency and productivity of the nation’s key trade networks.
New South Wales Ports Chief Executive Officer, Marika Calfas, said the business was excited to sponsor the ALC’s inaugural ESG Leader Award, which recognises those in the industry who are delivering more sustainable business outcomes, greater transparency and positive social outcomes for employees, communities and the environment.
“The challenges experienced globally in recent years remind us that sustainability is a shared concern. We all have a part to play in working towards a better future for the environment, the economy and our society,” Ms Calfas said.
“In line with our Sustainability Strategy, New South Wales Ports aims to be highly resilient, responsive and responsible in our operations. We are delighted to support the ALC’s new ESG Leader Award, in honour of industry colleagues who share our commitment to sustainable operations and growth.”
Ms Calfas will also host a discussion at the Supply Chain Summit, to be held in Brisbane on 16 May 2023, on land use efficiency and the need for enhanced urban planning to protect industrial lands, to ensure Australia remains competitive in global markets.
“Almost every port in the world is under pressure from urban encroachment, but while other major cities such as Rotterdam and Antwerp have more than 30 square kilometres of industrially zoned land near their ports, Sydney has less than five,” Ms Calfas said.
“The greater the distance between the port and industrial areas, the greater the operational costs, traffic and carbon emissions. It is critical that land use policy protects what’s left of our industrial lands, while also providing for additional, well-serviced industrial zones to cater for the nation’s growing trade needs.”
The ALC Supply Chain Summit will also feature discussions on topics such as the need for critical and interconnected infrastructure to support freight movements, how to practically advance sustainability and solutions to fill workforce shortages.