Twenty-five years ago, the environment was \u2018a little issue\u2019 which has now become part of any business plan. <\/p>\n
\u201cAnd it has to be achieved in a chaotic world,\u201d he said, referring to climate change, geopolitical circumstances and conservation issues that have taken centre stage across global maritime in such a short time. <\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019ve got to comply with legislation and regulation yet achieve sustainability,\u201d he said. \u201cEnvironmental management is evolving as we speak. The environment is part of sustainability, economics, society and governance \u2013 and they are the sum total of the ports and cruise industry.\u201d <\/p>\n
The GreenPort Congress, Wooldridge said, provided the ideal platform for ports and cruise professionals to exchange knowledge and expertise. <\/p>\n
\u201cWe need to demonstrate and who stakeholders what it is we are doing,\u201d he said. \u201cThe management of the global port sector has never been in a more dynamic period of change.\u201d <\/p>\n
Also speaking at the opening of the congress was Kris Danaradjou, Deputy Global Manager in Charge of Development with HAROPA Port. <\/p>\n
\u201cGreenPort used to be an oxymoron,\u201d he said. \u201cA few years ago, no one believed it could be green. Since then we have passed significant milestones, and ports have reduced their own impact on maritime activities with electrification in the ports, reducing speed and optimising management. For the commercial success of a port, \u2018green\u2019 will be the most qualifying adjective.\u201d <\/p>\n
Chris Wooldridge listed three key points that, in his opinion, were critical for the future of the greening wave. <\/p>\n
\u201cThink globally, act locally,\u201d he said. \u201cIt\u2019s never been more relevant and appropriate. Second, it has to be applied by the individual port \u2013 each port is unique. And finally, there\u2019s a gap between policy and practice. In the end it\u2019s all about people making decisions and influencing the sector. <\/p>\n
\u201cStakeholders want to know what we are doing. Ports have the responsibility and the liability.\u201d <\/p>\n
The GreenPort Congress was sponsored by ABB, Royal HaskoningDV, Igus, PowerCon and the wifi system by Problems Solved. <\/p>\n