By PortalPortuario Editorial
Brazil’s National Waterway Transportation Agency (Antaq) has approved a study that researched the Port of Itaqui (MA), Pecém Private Terminal (CE), Port of Paranaguá (PR), Port of Santos (SP), and Açu Private Terminal (RJ). The analysis indicated that the five port complexes offer incentives for vessels with a lower carbon footprint.
These port facilities were selected for their positive scores on the Environmental Performance Index (IDE), their ongoing energy transition projects, and their experience in decarbonization and green hydrogen applications.
According to the review, the benefits are present in the form of discounts on tariffs or docking priority, which indicates a gradual alignment with global emission reduction goals.
Another point raised was the existence of Decarbonization Plans, considered essential by the evaluated ports. Currently, the Port of Açu already has a consolidated plan, and other port facilities are developing the same document.
In this sense, the main initiatives adopted include the installation of solar panels for clean energy generation, the procurement of certified renewable energy, the replacement of combustion equipment with electric equipment, the modernization of electrical infrastructure, and the development of strategic partnerships to assess and implement the use of low-carbon fuels.
GHG Emissions
Of the five ports evaluated, three have complete GHG emissions inventories: the Port of Santos, the Port of Itaqui, and the Port of Açu. The other two are in the process of contracting this service.
In this regard, the Port of Açu stands out for having a broader inventory, including Scope 3, which covers emissions from activities such as dredging and logistical transport, the main contributors to the total volume.
Recommendations
The study recommended the creation of a National Green Hydrogen Plan and the implementation of tax incentives to accelerate the supply and adoption of clean fuels.
Public-private partnerships are also considered crucial to developing green infrastructure and export corridors, while investments in research and development can reduce costs and increase the competitiveness of sustainable technologies.
Regarding strategic partnerships, the analysis highlighted the initiative to implement green transport corridors (green corridors) that help cities and ports reduce global shipping emissions while improving the air quality of coastal communities.
Given this situation, the project also presented a guide of good practices and recommendations for the decarbonization of the Brazilian port sector, whose objective is to consolidate experiences and guidelines for the decarbonization of the sector. The main objective of the document is to disseminate recommendations and good practices focused on decarbonization.
