Next step to make Portsmouth International Port the greenest in the country taken

Portsmouth International Port is on track to become the UK's first net carbon neutral port by 2030 and the first zero emission port by 2050 after its new strategy was backed by the city council today (Dec 1).

'Living' walls made up of plants, wind turbines and fast electric vehicle charging points could be installed at the port if the plan is now approved by the Department for Transport (DfT).

Mike Sellers, the port's director, said: 'Despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, we've still been working hard to ensure we prepare for a green recovery here at the port.

'We need to take bold action if we’re to meet our goal to be the UK's first zero emission port, and play our part in tackling this pressing issue.'

Councillors agreed to the plans during a cabinet meeting today. They will build on work already taken including the switch to LED lighting across the port and the installation of air quality sensors.

And the port's newest linkspan (bridge between ships and the quay) uses soft-start electric motors to reduce electricity consumption.

Environment and climate change boss at the council, Councillor Dave Ashmore, described it as an 'ambitious' plan. He said: 'We've been clear in our plans to combat climate change, with energy saving projects at the council already delivering 250 tonnes of carbon savings a year.

'It is also important we do all that we can do to improve air quality in Portsmouth, as polluted air impacts everyone’s health.

'This ambitious plan demonstrates the ambition of the port and entire city to take this issue seriously, driving down emissions and improving the quality of life for our residents.'

Under the scheme it is also planned diesel vehicles at the port will be replaced with electric versions, and those that can't will be upgraded to emit the lowest emissions.

It comes after the port was awarded around £320,000 of funding to secure a 20ft battery to optimise the energy use.

The plans will now be submitted to the DfT for formal approval.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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