ESPO has released results from its recent environmental review 2016, with the aim to update the top ten environmental priorities of European ports.
The data was revealed at the PORTOPIA conference in Lisbon on 23 March 2016.
Antonis Michail, senior policy advisor and EcoPort coordinator at ESPO, said: “This data is important as it identifies the high priority environmental issues on which ports are working and sets the framework for guidance and initiatives to be taken by ESPO.”
In the environmental priorities for European ports for 2016, air quality remained number one. This is thought to be in light with the high priority status it has been given at EU political level.
The ten priorities are much the same as they were in 2013, although there are some changes in the order of importance.
Energy consumption is now second on the list of priorities, this is linked to the correlation between energy consumption, the carbon footprint and climate change.
Third on the list of priorities is noise, while relationship with the local community has climbed up to fourth.
The significance of waste management in ports and the continued discussion of ship generated waste has led to port waste and ship waste sitting in fifth and sixth position on the list.
While relationships with the local community, port development and water quality are all gaining importance, handling of port waste and dredging moved down the list.
