APM Terminals (APMT) and DP World have announced the establishment of the Zero Emission Port Alliance (ZEPA), an industry-wide strategic collaboration aimed at accelerating the transition to zero emissions for container handling equipment (CHE) at ports.
The ZEPA membership is available to all industry participants, including terminal operators, port authorities, and government bodies, according to APMT.
The alliance will begin operations in early 2024.
During the session to announce the alliance at COP28, APMT and DP World explained that ZEPA will work to increase industry-wide adoption of battery-electric CHE and catalyse further emissions reductions at ports.
The emphasis on battery-electric container handling equipment (BE-CHE) is based on research presented in a white paper commissioned jointly by APMT and DP World in October 2023.
This whitepaper presented findings that show the potential for BE-CHE to become more competitive than diesel CHE as it becomes more affordable, attractive, and accessible.
ZEPA members will inform the work programme and deliverables based on their practical experience and needs.
READ: DP World, IRENA agree on decarbonisation solutions
Through their membership, companies aim to accelerate the availability of affordable BE-CHE and to benefit from advantages gained from having a seat at the table in this industry-wide collective action.
ZEPA is governed to work in compliance with antitrust/competition laws and to foster transparency about the process and progress of its activities. APMT noted that key findings will be accessible to the whole industry, not just ZEPA members.
Jack Craig, Global Head of Technical, APMT said: “Our industry is in a strong position to drive real, meaningful change to decarbonise ports, and I believe the launch of the Zero Emission Port Alliance is a vital step in the right direction.
“It is apt for us to launch ZEPA at COP28 where so many significant conversations are taking place to achieve net zero. Today’s launch is a catalyst for collective decarbonisation action across the port industry and a signal to all our colleagues that we are serious about combatting climate change.”
READ: APMT close to realising Brazil’s first fully electrified terminal
Tiemen Meester, COO of Ports and Terminals, DP World added: “Collective, industry-wide action is needed to achieve affordable and attractive battery-electric CHE that can be used globally. The Zero Emission Port Alliance is a results-driven coalition with a clear focus, set-up to support and deliver tangible short-term action.
“I truly believe we are capable of driving the change needed to make port electrification happen. Whilst ZEPA is only at the beginning of the work it has set out to do, I’m confident in the dedication shown by the founding members, and the interest from other industry stakeholders. All involved in terminal operations must play their role in realising zero emission ports.”
