CREATING a shared sustainability vision is one of the aims of Port of Newcastle in joining other Hunter Valley entities pushing for the adoption of United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
A group – made up of PON, City of Newcastle, Compass Housing Services, Hunter Water, Kumalie, Port Waratah Coal Services and University of Newcastle – have committed to raise awareness and actively implement regional SDGs.
Port of Newcastle environment, planning and sustainability manager, Jackie Spiteri, said the move was part of efforts to become a more sustainable and responsible organisation.
“We have joined other leading Hunter institutions to create a shared vision in this area, build our region’s capability and look at what that looks like in practice, including how that affects the supply chain, procurement and strategic direction of each party,” Ms Spiteri said.
Port of Newcastle recently released its 2019 Sustainability Report, measuring progress towards sustainability and its contribution towards the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of the Hunter and regional New South Wales.
It is also moving to 100% renewable energy by 2021 and having all its vehicles electric by 2023.
Ms Spiteri said a STEM scholarship program for Aboriginal students, being with University of Newcastle, and programs to promote the empowerment of women in maritime, were just part of the port’s broader commitments.
“Minimising our environmental footprint, diversifying trade and creating a more resilient economy requires a determined, long-term effort, with co-operation between the Port and its stakeholders,” Ms Spiteri said.
“While we look to what the Port could be in the decades ahead, it is clear there are things we can do today to make the way we operate the port more sustainable and responsible.”
