Contecon Guayaquil SA (CGSA), an Ecuadorian terminal operated by International Container Terminal Services Inc (ICTSI), has become the first South American port to receive carbon-neutral certification.
According to a statement, the Ecuador Ministry of Environment and environmental ratings agency Sambito SA have recognized the company’s strong commitment to improving the eco-efficiency of its terminal operations.
Policies praised by the certification, which marks CGSA’s compliance to ISO 14064-1 standards, include sustainability initiatives and the incorporation of technologies that reduce the environmental impact of Ecuador’s premier shipping gateway.
At a ceremony held in December 2018, CGSA Chief Executive Officer José Antonio Contreras received a compliance plaque from Gustavo Manrique, President of Sambito, and Evelyn Montalván, Guayas Provincial Director of the Ministry of the Environment.
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The CEO said: “This carbon neutral certification awarded to Contecon Guayaquil is a testament of our firm and unbreakable commitment to preserve the environment in our own way.
“This certification highlights, above all, a conviction and responsibility to guarantee eco-friendly and sustainable operations with less contaminating to the environment. This is our contribution for a better world.”
CGSA has established a team which verifies problems and creates mechanisms to lower the port’s industrial emissions, offsetting the energy demands of Guayaquil’s day-to-day operations.
In addition to this, CGSA has sponsored the preservation of 14,600 hectares of natural areas in Ecuador, such as mangrove and native forests.
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ICTSI, the terminal operator, is also continuing its enhancement of energy monitoring systems, as well as expanding the use of energy-efficient cargo handling equipment and vehicle fleets.
Anders Kjeldsen, ICTSI Senior Vice President and Regional Head of the Americas, said: “Beyond port efficiency, the ICTSI Group has been making substantial investments to ensure an environmental-friendly supply chain, with the long-term vision of being able to secure appropriate certifications for all ports – regardless of location, project age, or stage of development.
“CGSA’s recent achievement underscores the Group’s proactive efforts towards minimizing the impact of port operations towards hinterland communities.”
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