Australian port pursues UN SDGs

The Port of Newcastle, along with six other Hunter institutions in New South Wales, has committed to raise awareness and actively implement the SDGs in the region.

Jackie Spiteri, environment, planning and sustainability manager at the Port of Newcastle, said the move was part of efforts to become a more sustainable and responsible organisation. “The UN’s 17 SDGs form the blueprint for a better and more sustainable future for all by addressing the global challenges we face, including those related to poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice.

“We have joined other leading Hunter institutions to create a shared vision in this area, build our region’s capability and look at what that looks like in practice, including how that affects the supply chain, procurement and strategic direction of each party.”

Sustainability Report

Port of Newcastle last month released its 2019 Sustainability Report, which measures the organisation’s progress in achieving its sustainability commitments and its contribution towards the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of the Hunter region and regional New South Wales (NSW).

It is also moving to 100% renewable energy by 2021 and is continuing to transition all its vehicles to electric by 2023.

Ms Spiteri said a STEM scholarship programme for Aboriginal students, currently being developed through a partnership with University of Newcastle, and programmes to promote the empowerment of women in maritime, were just part of the port’s broader commitment to sustainable and responsible operations.

“Minimising our environmental footprint, diversifying trade and creating a more resilient economy requires a determined, long-term effort, with co-operation between the Port and its stakeholders,” Ms Spiteri said.

“While we look to what the Port could be in the decades ahead, it is clear there are things we can do today to make the way we operate the port more sustainable and responsible.”

In addition to the port, Hunter institutions include the City of Newcastle, Compass Housing Services, Hunter Water, Kumalie, Port Waratah Coal Services and the University of Newcastle.