Helsinki Port gets Greenest Port of the Year award

The Port of Helsinki has received the Greenest Port of the Year award from the International Green Shipping Summit, said a press release issued by the Port of Helsinki Authority on Wednesday.

The Green Shipping awards are given for implementing environmental projects and adhering to or even exceeding the standards of regulations and environmental requirements governing the reduction of harmful emissions.

The awards were presented during the third international Green Shipping Summit in Amsterdam on 2 October 2018. The summit was intended for maritime professionals who support eco-friendly practices in shipping and maritime operations.

The award winners were selected by vote among industry operators. The Port of Helsinki got ahead in the race by offering a discount available to cruise liners, encouraging shipping companies to discharge their waste water directly into Helsinki’s sewer system.

“We are very pleased with the recognition that the long-term work on controlling the environmental impact of port operations and shipping at the Port of Helsinki has now received,” said Helsinki Port Chief Executive Officer Ville Haapasaari.

“Each quay at the Helsinki Port is well-equipped to receive waste water, and our monetary incentive proved effective. Currently, waste water is discharged during approximately 90 per cent of cruise ship calls in Helsinki,” said the CEO.

“We are going to continue with our work supporting the environment, as we want to become the forerunner in sustainable development in our industry,” he added.

The Green Shipping awards of 2018 highlight the efforts and accomplishments of shipping professionals. Companies are being rewarded for best practices and quality operations in the various fields of shipping. In addition to the Greenest Port of the Year, the awards also acknowledged the Greenest Marine Service Provider of the Year, the Most Extraordinary Contribution to HSSE, the Greenest & Most Innovative Shipbuilding Solution and the Greenest Shipowner of the Year.