BEST takes on hybrid cranes in decarbonisation drive

This latest acquisition will see CO2 emissions reduce by up to 40%, says Hutchison, which aims to position BEST as one of the most environmentally sustainable terminals in Europe.

“Currently, each container passing through BEST saves 65% in emissions compared to a conventional terminal,” said Guillermo Belcastro, chief executive of Hutchison Ports BEST.

“This feature together with the largest rail terminal in the region and the electrification of the quays in 2024, allows us to provide a unique proposition in the Mediterranean.”

The terminal is primarily powered by electricity, which comes exclusively from certified renewable sources, says Hutchison. The only equipment in the terminal still powered by fossil fuels are the shuttle carriers, with plans to decarbonise these forming part of a large number of initiatives to minimise BEST’s carbon footprint. These plans include the installation of solar panels, the electrification of the vehicle fleet and the electrification of the quays, among others.

Among these initiatives is also the commitment to green corridors between maritime and land transport, encouraging the use of rail and promoting the creation of inland terminals.

Over the last decade, BEST has experienced a jump in rail traffic from 3% to 20%, reaching the ratios of the large ports of Northern Europe.