Belfast Harbour has been recognised as one of the Top 40 businesses in Business in the Community’s Environmental Benchmarking Survey, reaffirming its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Through strategic initiatives and innovative approaches, the organisation continues to set the standard for responsible business practices in Northern Ireland.
Background
As a key economic driver in Northern Ireland, Belfast Harbour has long prioritised environmental responsibility as part of its sustainability agenda. The organisation’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint is reflected in its proactive approach to sustainable development, resource efficiency, and biodiversity enhancement. Accelerating to net zero is one of the central pillars of the organisation’s 2025-29 Strategy, as it aims to be net zero in its direct operations by the end of 2030.
Over the past few years, Belfast Harbour has implemented several key initiatives aimed at driving environmental improvements. These include the introduction of low-carbon alternative fuels, significantly cutting emissions. Additionally, Belfast Harbour exclusively uses REGO-certified green electricity, ensuring that its energy consumption is derived from 100% renewable sources. The organisation has also installed air quality sensors around the Harbour Estate to monitor and manage air pollution effectively, ensuring that its operations remain aligned with best environmental practices.
As part of its commitment to biodiversity and blue carbon initiatives, Belfast Harbour has partnered with Ulster Wildlife Trust to install an oyster nursery along part of its waterfront area, supporting marine biodiversity and enhancing natural carbon sequestration within the harbour environment.
Participation in Business in the Community’s Environmental Benchmarking Survey has provided Belfast Harbour with a valuable framework for assessing and improving its sustainability performance. The recognition as a Top 40 business highlights the organisation’s dedication to making meaningful contributions towards a greener, more sustainable future. Belfast Harbour has received this award for 16 consecutive years, underscoring its long-standing commitment to environmental excellence.
Zero Emissions Vans Launch
Impacts and Outcomes
Carbon Reduction: Achieved a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, decreasing by over 70% from 4,085 tonnes CO2e in 2015, to 1,185 tonnes CO2e in 2024. This has been realised through energy efficiency measures, the introduction of low-carbon alternative fuels, and investment in renewable energy sources.
Biodiversity Enhancement: Introduced new marine biodiversity initiatives, including the oyster nursery installation in partnership with Ulster Wildlife Trust, which enhances blue carbon sequestration and supports local marine ecosystems.
Sustainable Operations: Installed air quality sensors around the Harbour estate to monitor air pollution and improve air quality, all while maintaining focus on reducing waste and resource consumption.
To find out more about taking part in the NI Environmental Benchmarking Survey, visit www.bitcni.org.uk/niebs.