The Scottish Ports Group has welcomed the Scottish Government’s ‘Greenport’ initiative, a project meant to increase free trade and cut emissions across the country, according to the British Ports Association (BPA).
Greenports, which the BPA understands to be based on similar principles and mechanisms to Freeports, will encourage the adoption of best practice for businesses and will be attached to commitments to net-zero, fair work criteria and ensuring payment of the living wage, which the Scottish Ports Group is supportive of.
This announcement follows a survey of the ports sector, local authorities and industry bodies by the Scottish Government on the role of place-based economic zones in Scotland.
The Scottish Government have subsequently opted to adapt the UK Government’s Freeports proposals to target their own objectives.
Commenting, Stuart Cresswell, Chair of the Scottish Ports Group, said, “The Scottish Ports Group has welcomed the Government’s announcement today that they will be adapting the UK Government’s Freeports offer to establish ‘Greenports’ in Scotland.
“Significant questions remain, notably regarding the number of sites that will be established as Greenports and the specific mechanisms that will be included here; which we look forward to receiving more detail on shortly.
“However, we are delighted by the Scottish Government’s acknowledgement of the role ports can play in supporting growth, strengthening the economy and providing high-wage, high-skill jobs, which the industry is ready to play their part in.”
