Falmouth Harbour is a highly innovative working trust port delivering measurable decarbonisation, biodiversity recovery, operational resilience, and community value through an integrated sustainability programme. The programme is distinguished by its combination of nature recovery, decarbonisation and technological innovation, underpinned by strong leadership and transparent reporting.
2025 saw a 39% reduction (80% predicted reduction 2026) in Scope 1 greenhouse gas emissions compared with 2024. Achieved by replacement of diesel with Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) across our workboat fleet. Scope 2 emissions reduced by switching to 100% renewable electricity. Electric vessel charging infrastructure installed, supporting the trial of an electric RIB. Furthermore, focus is placed on climate adaptation through proactive asset management. A comprehensive Marine Plan has been developed and communicated to stakeholders and infrastructure resilience improvements made across 600 swing moorings.
Biodiversity outcomes are proven – 6.8% localised increase in biodiversity through the installation of biodiversity enhancing reef cubes and intertidal habitat tiles. 11 moorings removed & 9 Advanced Mooring Systems now installed over sensitive seabeds, reducing mooring impact by ~300 m², alongside detailed mapping of anchoring pressure and completion of a Baited Remote Underwater Video Surveillance (BRUVS) biodiversity study.
Pollution reduction measures also delivered results, including installation of blackwater facilities, disposal of 15 tonnes of end of life vessels and contribution to water quality monitoring innovation through the Smart Ports Clean Waters project, Falmouth ranked best among comparator ports.
The programme contributes directly to key UN SDGs, notably Climate Action, Life Below Water, Innovation and Partnerships. Stakeholder collaboration has been central, with universities, NGOs, local authorities and harbour users actively engaged. In 2025 alone, Falmouth Harbour supported 195 hours of student work placements, MSc and PhD research projects, community ocean recovery events and regional marine governance forums. Collectively, these outcomes demonstrate a delivered, evidence driven and scalable sustainability model, positioning Falmouth Harbour as a credible exemplar of environmental leadership for medium sized ports.