POAL - Sustainability

Sustainability

We take the sustainability of our operations very seriously – socially, economically, and environmentally. Being a sustainable port is key to our strategic direction and helps us keep our people, customers, community, and our shareholder at the forefront of what we do.

As a port located in the heart of the city, we must be smart and responsible about how we prepare for our growth, especially as Auckland's population continues to rise and the natural environment directly surrounding the port relies on us to look after it. We also have a responsibility to contribute to the wider global climate by reducing the emissions associated with our operations.

Our sustainability vision is to be a valued and trusted part of the Auckland community by championing sustainable business practices and forming resilient partnerships. Ports of Auckland has committed to a goal of zero emissions by 2040. In setting this vision and goal, Ports of Auckland has recognised the leadership role it can play in driving positive change in the ports and shipping industry both locally and globally. As a city port, our ambition is to exceed the regulatory requirements, with a focus on improving the environment for the community it is surrounded by.

We are proud to help customers optimise environmental efficiency through several steps of the supply chain. We've been working to increase the use of rail and our freight hubs to sustainably link New Zealand exporters to global markets and importers to their distribution centres.

Contributing to a sustainable economy

The port serves as an important gateway for international trade connecting New Zealanders with global markets by delivering and receiving products from across the world. We employ over 600 staff and contractors in a variety of disciplines from stevedoring, engineering, truck drivers and office staff. We pay a dividend to our shareholder Auckland Council which goes to supporting Auckland city residents.

Memberships

Sustainable Business Council

Sustainable Business Council (SBC) aims to mainstream sustainability within the New Zealand business community. The port has been a member since 2014. We play an active role in both speaking at and attending SBC events.

Climate Leader's Coalition

The Climate Leaders Coalition (CLC) was launched in July 2018 to promote business leadership and collective action on the issue of climate change. Ports of Auckland is one of 13 founding members of the CLC and we are a signatory to the 2019 pledge.

C40 Green Ports Forum

Launched in 2020 the Green Ports Forum connects port cities and ports around the world to take collective action to tackle the climate crisis and decarbonise global supply chains related to ports. We are part of the forum which currently includes 20 of the world's leading port cities from every region.

World Port Sustainability Programme

In 2017 the International Association of Ports and Harbours set up a World Ports Sustainability Program. Guided by the 17 UN SDGs the program aims to enhance and coordinate sustainability efforts of ports worldwide and foster international cooperation with partners in the supply chain. The World Ports Sustainability Program builds on the World Ports Climate Initiative that IAPH started in 2008 and extends it to other areas of sustainable development.