The role of global ports in combatting climate change, renewable energy and the journey to net zero were among some of the topics being discussed at the inaugural GreenPort Congress Oceania, hosted by Port of Newcastle.
More than 150 delegates, industry experts and academics, gathered in Newcastle for the sustainability-focussed conference, which is being held outside Europe for the first time.
Port of Newcastle CEO Craig Carmody said the forum was an opportunity to collaborate with like-minded stakeholders while showcasing Newcastle as an innovative, sustainable, liveable, global city.
“People who live or work in Newcastle and the Hunter know how lucky we are,” Craig said.
“This is our chance to champion our region and its environmental, sustainability and innovation achievements to the world.
“At Port of Newcastle, we are proud to be a leader within the Australian port industry and of the inroads we have made in delivering against our ambitious environmental, social and governance targets.
“Whether that’s our 100% renewable energy deal, sustainability-linked financing, transitioning the Port fleet to electric vehicles, or reducing our Co2e emissions to well below our SBTi approved target level.
“Hosting an international forum that brings together industry leaders and experts to discuss the latest sustainable developments and environmental practices will benefit not just us, but ports across the world as we work towards a more sustainable and socially responsible future.”
The theme for the inaugural GreenPort Congress Oceania was ‘Balancing environmental considerations with economic demands’, which was the focus of a packed three-day programme that involved 33 speakers from countries including Solomon Islands, PNG, Australia and New Zealand.
Port of Newcastle’s Chief Commercial Officer, Simon Byrnes presented on the Port’s diversification into a Deepwater Container Terminal and new Clean Energy Precinct, while Senior Manager ESG & Investor Relations, Matthew Stephenson provided insight into its sustainability journey.
Chief Financial Officer, Nick Livesey also joined the list of speakers, providing a 101 session on Sustainability Linked Financing.
“Despite our industrial heritage, Port of Newcastle is considered a global leader in sustainability best practice,” Nick said.
“We were the first Port in Australia and New Zealand to become a member of the international EcoPorts network and in 2022 we increased our global GRESB score for the fourth-consecutive year, maintaining our five star status.
“In 2023 are committed to doing more to build on the work we have done to continue to make meaningful change.”
GreenPort Congress Oceania is run by UK-based publisher Port Strategy. The Congress concluded with a port tour.
IMAGE | GreenPort Congress Oceania in session.
