The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) along with other terminal operators and port stakeholders collaborated to conduct sustainable and GHG emission reduction project to align with the National Climate change targets.
Sri Lanka has developed its National Climate Change Policy targeting GHG emission reduction. Sri Lanka Ports Authority as the governing body of the ports around the country has the responsibility to ensure the port projects and operations comply with the national climate change targets.
As a port situated in a developing country, the financing and investments towards sustainability projects has been challenging. Therefore the Sri Lanka Ports Authority with collaboration with the other terminal operators and port stakeholders have taken joint measures through smaller but impactful contributions towards GHG emission reduction.
The main objectives of the project included:
- To collaborate with all terminal operators and port stakeholders to contribute to the National Climate Change Policy, focusing on GHG emission reduction in the energy and transport sector.
- Implement and promote smaller projects targeting GHG emission reduction so that the cumulative effect as a port is higher.
- Creating a dialog among port stakeholders on GHG emission reduction and increasing awareness of the public on the importance of it.
As part of its contribution, SLPA has undertaken various initiatives targeting increasing the efficiency of port call and operations, including investments in digitalization and infrastructure, electrifying port equipment, using solar energy to power the port authority offices, committing to carbon footprint monitoring and reporting, as well as investigating and planning the provision of onshore power supply to vessels as berth.
Overall, the project resulted indeed in:
- Port sector contributions towards the National Climate Change Policy on GHG emission reduction.
- Increased awareness among port employees and port stakeholders on sustainability and GHG emission reduction.
- Contributions by all terminals that have created a culture of working together to implement sustainability projects.
- Opportunities and ideas for future larger projects under a spirit of collaboration and joining forces.
- A more green and environment friendly port which is contributing to economic development