The Port of London Authority (PLA) has unveiled the Net Zero River Plan, which identifies four priority themes to accelerate the move to Net Zero.
According to the port, these four priority themes are: alternative fuels and infrastructure adoption, clear regulation and legislation, funding, and reliable data.
These themes guide four strong promises and a defined plan of action to help Thames operators shift to and implement sustainable alternative fuels and green technology:
- Supporting the transition to alternative fuels and green technology, including through a strategic infrastructure plan for the Thames for shore power, and the importation, storage and bunkering of alternative fuels.
2. Working with regulators to promote the safe adoption of alternative fuels and green technology, with a 2024 review of the approval process for green technology use.
3. Unlocking funding and financing for alternative fuels and green technology, which will include a “Centre of Excellence for Green Projects” for Thames operators to capitalise on future government funding cycles.
4. Enabling the use of data for decision-making and collaboration, with access provided to the Maritime Emission Portal data for operators on the Thames.
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The Port of London noted that significant progress has already been made towards Net Zero, including onsite renewable energy generation at terminals, use of the river for light freight deliveries, the construction of fully electric berths, the introduction of hybrid passenger vessels and the delivery and licencing of a fully electric work vessel.
Grace Rawnsley, Director of Sustainability at the Port of London Authority, said: “We’re working with operators from the length of the tidal Thames as we know that taking rapid action to reduce emissions is vital both to addressing climate change and to ensure a competitive future for trade and transportation.
“All of the terminal and vessel operators involved, as well as other supporting stakeholders, are showing great commitment to Net Zero and a sustainable future for our river.”
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Martin Whiteley, Chief Executive Officer for Thames Freeport, said: “The Thames Freeport is committed to delivering sustainable growth on the Thames, unleashing London’s greatest opportunity in a generation to decarbonise and grow industries in the region.
“We welcome and support the ambitions of the Port of London Authority and partners of the Net Zero Coalition which will position the River Thames at the heart of the net zero transition, enabling sustainable supply chains, generating new, green job opportunities for future generations, reducing the environmental impact of transport on communities and bringing innovative industries to our region.”
