Running the operation “completely on renewable fuels’ together with a doubling of rail-borne freight and optimising vessel operations are key parts of a new climate strategy launched by APM Terminals Gothenburg. “The strategy supports the Port of Gothenburg climate goal of reducing carbon emissions by 70% throughout the whole of the Gothenburg area by 2030,” the port said.

The Port of Gothenburg has offered shore power for vessels at berth since the early 2000s, and a tariff discount for vessels that “report a good environmental performance” has been in place since 2013. Gothenburg Port Authority has claimed to be climate neutral in its own operations since 2015.

The port wants to do more on the climate front: “A growing number of transport purchasers are demanding a solid, assertive, and quantifiable environment and climate work, which is a fact that gives us a competitive edge over other ports. Alongside increased digitalisation and growth, we regard our environment and climate work as a key factor that will enable us to achieve our vision of becoming the world’s most competitive port,” said Elvir Dzanic, Gothenburg Port Authority chief executive.

The next step was announced in October, when the port set a target to reduce carbon emissions by 70% by 2030. This includes emissions within the port itself and an extended area from the outer port entrance 15 kilometres to the west, right up to the city boundary.

“This is unique. There is no other port in the world that is working according to such a strict environmental target. But despite our spirit and determination, it will be difficult to realise our goals if we do not have the major players in and around the port with us all the way. We are extremely pleased with the investments that are being made by APM Terminals Gothenburg,” said Elvir Dzanic.

APM Terminals Gothenburg is now launching its ”Green Gothenburg Gateway” updated strategy for reducing the climate footprint of the terminal. “The terminal is aiming for a fossil-free future following a series of innovative measures, such as electrically operated cranes and gates, and terminal buildings heated by biogas. The container handling equipment, including more than 40 straddle carriers, will be powered by fossil-free fuel HVO100. All measures are to be implemented by 2020,” the port stated.

APM Terminals Gothenburg has already put into operation a major programme designed to optimise vessels time at berth. “Although 22 per cent of vessels that call at the container terminal arrive later than agreed, ongoing optimisation of loading and discharge ensures that 97 per cent of vessels leave the quayside at the appointed time, sometimes earlier. The vessels then avoid having to increase speed to make their next scheduled port of call, which would involve using more fuel,” the port noted.

On the landside, APM Terminals Gothenburg intends to double its rail volume over the next three years. it is being supported by the port authority, which has invested about €50M in the Railport Scandinavia network, including joint financing of the double-track expansion of the rail network leading in to the port, and two rail-connected crossdocking terminals – the Arken Combi Terminal and the soon to be opened Svea Terminal.