European ports lead in sustainability
The 'ESPO Environmental Report 2025' highlights how European ports are advancing sustainability. Based on data from 77 ports across 18 countries, climate change remains the top concern for the fourth year, with 80% of ports setting GHG reduction targets, and 53% addressing emissions from port operations. Ports are proactively expanding onshore power supply (OPS) and supporting the energy transition, with many integrating climate adaptation into new projects to strengthen resilience. Land-use planning gains importance as ports balance growth with sustainability, especially with increasing land demands for renewable energy.
Most ports now have environmental policies and management systems, achieving a record Environmental Management Index of 8.67. Monitoring efforts focus on energy, waste, and water quality. The report underscores ports’ strong commitment to environmental governance, demonstrating their leadership in progressing toward a sustainable future despite rising reporting and compliance demands.