In response to increasing global biodiversity risks, Lyttelton Port Company (LPC) has published the world’s first nature-related impact and dependency disclosure by a port. This initiative directly aligns with the Global Biodiversity Framework and UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 9, 11, 13, 14, 15, 17) and provides an evidence-based approach to reducing nature-related risk and improving ecosystem resilience.
Using ArcGIS spatial analysis – layering historical maps, aerial photographs, port development records, and ecological surveys – LPC was able to quantify the ecological impacts of its operations dating back to 1875. ArcGIS has enabled LPC to visualise habitat loss and the key activities identified as causing marine degradation including seabed reclamation, dredging, spoil disposal, stormwater discharge, and vessel traffic. This comprehensive baseline assessment is now being integrated into business wide planning and investment decisions. Building on the report, LPC launched a five-year Biodiversity Roadmap, which contains nine measurable targets and 17 performance metrics. The roadmap focuses on drivers of nature change specific to LPC’s operations and sets a course to contribute to a nature positive future.
LPC’s leadership extends beyond its direct operational footprint. As a partner of the Whaka-Ora Healthy Harbour initiative, LPC collaborates with other organisations and communities on catchment-wide actions to restore the Lyttelton Harbour/Whakaraupō ecosystem. This model of cross-sector engagement exemplifies scalable, collaborative sustainability. While nature disclosures are not yet mandatory, LPC has voluntarily taken a transparent approach and hopes this will catalyse a wider uptake across the port sector. LPC is demonstrating leadership within New Zealand and the port sector in aligning commercial operations with ecological outcomes.