In 2020, the Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) launched “COMMON GROUND”, a project that fosters social engagement through joint community days. COMMON GROUND is an internal initiative that brings employees together to encourage meaningful, social and hands-on work outside their routine work environment. The program fosters team spirit, strengthens cross-departmental relationships, and reinforces a shared sense of purpose through collaborative volunteer work.
To date, 17 joint community days have been held, engaging 191 participants, with three additional community days already scheduled for this year. These events are designed not only to benefit internal culture but also to contribute to ecological and social sustainability. The activities are carried out in cooperation with non-profit organizations whose missions align with HPA’s values, often involving socially disadvantaged individuals or those with physical or psychological challenges. One such partner organization assists in organizing three community days per year and employs 15 people with disabilities.
One of the main pillars of the COMMON GROUND project is a long-standing collaboration of the HPA with NABU, one of Germany’s leading environmental NGOs. HPA staff annually support NABU in maintaining a bird protection reserve in the port area. Approximately 30 employees assist with clearing hay from breeding islands, followed by a communal barbecue with all participants. HPA and NABU do not always agree on their perspectives on the future development of the port but have found common ground in engaging in local projects that help protecting nature. COMMON GROUND creates a meaningful space for dialogue, fostering trust and shared commitment to environmental protection. It symbolizes how ecological commitment, and social inclusion can converge – even among groups with sometimes differing perspectives.
In addition to the collaboration with NABU, other project highlights include the transformation of a disused port area into a blooming wildflower meadow and the construction of an ecologically valuable deadwood hedge, both of which contribute to biodiversity within the port’s ecosystem. Through COMMON GROUND the HPA demonstrates that sustainability in ports extends beyond environmental impact. It includes people, partnerships, and the courage to build bridges where differences exist. Always guided by the principle that collaboration and open dialogue are essential for creating sustainable port management.