A commitment to biodiversity

It developed a master plan for the implementation of compensation measures in order to integrate compensation requirements in reduced economic development plans for the Luneplate.

Robert Howe, managing director of Bremenports, explained: “Several former port extensions and infrastructure projects in Bremerhaven led to land requirements in the sensitive Wadden Sea environment.”

“These projects damaged valuable nature sites, affected local recreational and residential areas and created the challenge of reconciling these different interests to enable co-development.”

The Luneplate project consists of four different main areas, outer dyke areas, grassland area, tidal polder and the area at the “Old Weser”.

It is the diversity of these different sites, which merge into one another, which offers a habitat for various endangered species.

The project stands for commitment to biodiversity, for active involvement of the interests of the local public, local farmers and nature protection NGOs in line with the economic interests of the Ports of Bremen.

Mr Howe added: “It was a great advantage to have continuity in our actively involved staff, as the public recognised our true intention of assuming the responsibility entrusted to us.”

“Additionally, we ensure the exchange with our stakeholders through regular public information events and we have developed a comprehensive visitors’ concept including information and observation facilities.”

Bremenports’ project has been nominated for the ESPO Award 2016, the winner will be announced during the official Award Ceremony at the Egmont Palace in Brussels on 9 November.

It stands as example of an integrated approach combining economy and ecology, bringing world port development requests together with the needs of a very sensitive environment.

“The Luneplate project was the initial element for our sustainability strategy called greenports,” explained Mr Howe.

He concluded: “The ESPO Award would highlight this game change from duty to real responsibility and appreciate a unique example of organisational changes to a better societal integration of ports.”