Porto Sudeste sets ambitious decarbonization target by 2033

Sustainable commitment in the port sector

In a pioneering move in the port sector, Porto Sudeste, located in Itaguaí, RJ, defined a bold objective: a 50,4% reduction in Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions from scopes 1 and 2 of its operations by 2033 , based on 2021 levels. This announcement represents a significant milestone in combating global warming and adapting to climate change, reflecting a deep commitment to environmental sustainability.

Ulisses Oliveira, director of corporate affairs and sustainability at Porto Sudeste, highlights the importance of this step: “The climate risk study and the definition of GHG reduction targets show how committed we are to the ESG strategy, which is the core of our business plan. We are not only considering climate and operational risks, but actively acting to mitigate them.”

Innovative and sustainable initiatives

Porto Sudeste has been adopting several measures to achieve its sustainability goals. Among them is the replacement of gasoline with ethanol, the use of certified energy from renewable sources, the implementation of photovoltaic energy and the automation of equipment for operational efficiency. These actions are part of a comprehensive effort to include scopes 1 and 2 in your climate strategy.

Furthermore, the Port is a pioneer in hiring the Rightship tool to measure scope 3 GHG emissions, an unprecedented initiative among port terminals in Brazil. “Tackling scope 3 emissions is a huge challenge, but with Rightship technology, we can manage and identify opportunities to reduce our environmental impact,” adds Ulisses.

Results and future prospects

Since 2015, Porto Sudeste has been monitoring its GHG emissions, which has guided its investments in technology and process optimization. In 2023, the company published a complete GHG inventory, receiving the Silver Seal from the Brazilian GHG Protocol Program. The sustainable practices already implemented at the terminal include the use of 100% electrical equipment and the reuse of 90% of rainwater collection and effluent treatment.

The Porto Sudeste Sustainability Report, now following the GRI model, works as a guide for the company's organizational strategy, emphasizing Materiality, Stakeholder Engagement and SDG Prioritization.

Operational impact

Porto Sudeste recorded significant growth in its operations, with 6,9 million tons of iron ore handled in the 3rd quarter of 2023, an increase of 60% compared to the previous year. By September, the terminal had already handled 19 million tons, surpassing the 2020 record. The expectation is to surpass 20 million tons in 2023.

This commitment by Porto Sudeste to decarbonization and sustainability is an example for the sector, showing how concrete actions and a vision of the future can lead to a significant positive environmental impact.

Source: Rita Sousa – Communication Consultant.