Environmental sustainability of port development and operations (port activities)

Abstract

In the context of ports, there is a common misconception that the prevention of air emissions amounts to environmental sustainability. This paper focuses on environmental impacts and sustainability initiatives of port activities (within the quay, yard and gatehouse) in port development and operations. The ‘Port of Singapore’ will be used as the main case study and the following areas will be discussed: 1. Environmental impacts of port activities 2. Green port policies and efforts of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) 3. Green port developments of port operators in Singapore The following green port initiatives have been identified and will be analysed: MPA: • Green Port Programme (GPP)• Maritime Innovation & Technology Fund (MINT Fund)• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and the development of Tuas Mega Port PSA: • Electrification of port equipment Jurong Port: • Green Berths J10 & J11 2 main drivers of port environmental sustainability were established. They are: 1. Regulations from local governments. 2. Pressure from external stakeholders of the ports. If there are no regulations enforcing ports to go green, ports will remain as status quo. Many of the interviewees also highlighted that business survival and sustainability is of topmost priority, while environmental sustainability is secondary. An important conclusion was also drawn. Being environmentally sustainable does not enhance a port’s competitiveness as the choice of port call. It ultimately depends on the level of efficiency and affordability of the services provided. Most of the time, going green is a secondary benefit for pursuing efficiency or meeting regulations. Singapore alone plays a small part in the journey of environmental sustainability globally. More efforts can be explored to get more member ports onboard the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH) as a platform to share best green practices and expertise to be more environmentally sustainable cohesively. Ultimately, it is both the individual and collective responsibility to do our part for environmental sustainability in this world which we all live in. Without environmental sustainability, economic stability and social cohesion worldwide cannot be achieved.