In 2015 the Port of Cartagena created the joint Inter-University Environment Chair of Port Authority of Cartagena and Campus Mare Nostrum (Environment Chair APC – CMN). In July of that year, a collaboration agreement was signed between the Port Authority of Cartagena, the Polytechnic University of Cartagena and the University of Murcia for the creation of this Environment Chair, which was renewed on June 19, 2023. This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Chair, which allows permanent collaboration between the Port Authority of Cartagena and public universities in the Region of Murcia (Spain), to develop research activities, transfer technical assistance and training in environmental matters.
The priority areas are determined by the Permanent Commission governing its operation, and particularly relate to biodiversity and the responsible management of species and habitats, mainly in the port environment. The promotion of environmental concepts and tools such as Nature Conservation Banks, the environmental custody of the territory, the management of natural resources, the integration of environmental assessment in the planning and management of companies, as well as the design of measures aimed at the conservation, sustainable use, improvement, restoration and compensation of the natural heritage and biodiversity are of interest.
The Port Authority of Cartagena directs, coordinates and collaborates with both universities in carrying out advisory, research and training activities. It also places at their disposal its own facilities that may be necessary for the development of the Chair; promotes dissemination, diffusion, communication and promotion activities of the actions carried out; and collaborates in the search for European and research funds destined to the realization of activities related to the protection, conservation and improvement of the environment.
Throughout these 10 years, more than 25 research projects were developed to advance scientific knowledge and quality research. With this initiative, the Port of Cartagena is leading the way in synergies between universities and seeks to attract the talent of its students and researchers to contribute to the goals of sustainability, innovation, transformation, and improvement in environmental management and our natural environment.