Environment
Sustainability goals
PSA Belgium is set on a journey towards a future where sustainable practices redefine industry norms.
To achieve this vision, we have set ambitious goals to significantly reduce our carbon footprint.
SCOPE 1 & 2 EMISSIONS
Baseline Year 2019
WASTE & WATER
Baseline Year 2016
How we change our operations
At PSA, we dream of a planet that future generations can still enjoy.
Our commitment extends beyond mere aspiration; we actively pursue initiatives aimed at fostering a future-proof planet. Aligned with the ambitious targets set forth in the Paris Agreement and the EU's objective of attaining net zero emissions by 2050, we fervently engage in actions that propel us towards a greener, more equitable future. Through our energy transition plan and climate response management system, we ensure a systematic reduction in energy consumption, emissions, water usage, and waste through specific changes in our operations.
Project Emerald
-58% CO2-emissions per container
Project Emerald, with an expected completion date in 2033, is expected to lead to a 58% reduction in C02 emissions per container.
As part of this project, we will replace the diesel-driven straddle carriers on the yard and landside with full electric Automated Stacking Cranes (ASCs). For the construction of the new terminal, we're using sustainable concrete wherever technically possible. And by 2026, we aim to to equip one of our berths with green shore power.
Learn more about Project Emerald >
Hybrid Straddle Carriers
-25% diesel emissions per machine
Hybrid straddle carriers, equipped with energy recovery technology when lowering containers, have been the standard for all new purchases since 2021. These machines are significantly more fuel-efficient than traditional diesel models, leading to a 25% reduction in emissions per machine.
By the end of 2025, our fleet will include 93 hybrid straddle carriers.
Green SC Program
Innovation for sustainability
Through the Green Straddle Carrier Program, we’ve partnered with CMB.Tech to launch the world’s first dual fuel hydrogen straddle carrier at our Noordzee Terminal. It uses state-of-the-art H2 dual fuel combustion engine technology, running on a mix of hydrogen and diesel.
We have also begun testing 100% electric straddle carriers at MPET. Equipped with advanced battery technology, these e-straddle carriers can operate at peak power for over four hours before requiring approximately 90 minutes to fully recharge.
100% Green Energy
Local electricity production
Since 2017, we’ve been powering our operations with 100% green electricity. Gradually, we aim to increase our locally and on-site generated green energy by installing solar panels and wind turbines at our terminals.
Currently, we have installed 1,682 solar panels, generating approximately 800,000 kWh. And by the end of Q1 2026, we plan to connect two wind turbines to our terminal.
Water conservation
-3 million liters tap water per year
We've developed an innovative filtration system next to Project Emerald. By replacing concrete with porous gravel and elevating containers, we improve rainwater absorption into the ground, enhancing natural drainage and preserving water resources.
We have also installed rainwater tanks with a total capacity of 340,000 liters next to our terminals. This collected rainwater is used for cleaning equipment and in sanitation, helping us save 3 million liters of tap water each year.
Energy Efficiency
-60% crane energy consumption
95% of our quay cranes are equipped with 'energy recovery technology'. This technology captures energy released during lowering and braking, which is then stored by the generator. This results in a 60% reduction in energy consumption for our cranes.
What we do together
Our commitment to sustainability starts with the understanding that true change starts from within.
Our employees are at the heart of this transformation. That’s why we prioritize cultivating a green mindset throughout our organization. We support this through encouragement, active involvement, and tailored training programs. By fostering a culture of environmental awareness, we empower our colleagues deepen thier understanding of sustainability issues and their impact. Through various initiatives, collaborations, and specialized learning programs, we are dedicated to building a workforce that’s prepared for the future.
100% electric Vehicles
+ 1 in 4 employees use a lease bike
We have implemented an extensive policy for 100% electric company cars, and increased the use of electric vans for employee and visitor transport on our terminals. Currently, 72% of our company cars are fully electric, and 26% are hybrid.
We also encourage our employees to use lease bikes for their daily commute. Approximately one in four employees now use lease bikes.
Single use plastic
Geen overbodige wegwerpplastic
In our offices, we have eliminated single-use plastics such as unnecessary trash bags, coffee cups, cutlery, and other everyday items.
As a result, we save annually:
- 515,000 disposable cups
- 100,000 plastic water bottles
- 111,000 plastic bags
- 85,000 plastic stirrers
RecyclING
Goal: circular operations
In terms of recycling and waste collection, we go beyond of what is legally required. We strive to achieve zero waste to landfill, and therefore encourage our employees to think in an environmentally friendly way every day, e.g. by sorting waste and minimizing the use of paper.
Additionally, we are continuously working on expanding the recycling of our waste streams to achieve circular operations.
Thanks to these initiatives, we achieved an 8% reduction in residual waste and a 34% reduction in waste to landfill in 2024 (reference year 2016).
Green initiatives
Colleagues team up for sustainability
Throughout the year, we team up with our colleagues to run Go Green campaigns—hands-on initiatives like Terminal Clean-Up Days and our annual Go Green Week, where sustainability takes center stage.
Employee Training
Sustainability starts from within
We believe continuous learning is key to building a greener future. That’s why we offer a wide range of sustainability-focused training programs.
From workshops and training sessions to internal initiatives like our Sustainability Champions meetings, we provide our employees with the tools and resources they need to grow their knowledge and make a real impact—both within the company and beyond.
PSA Global Performance 2024
Decarbonisation with a focus on energy reduction.
Reducing CO2 emissions through energy efficiency remains a top priority for PSA. Led by the Group Sustainability team, our decarbonisation efforts are coordinated across the organisation to achieve PSA’s long-term sustainability goals.
Globally, we’ve implemented the Climate Response Management System (CRMS) to align our climate actions and focus on four key areas: greenhouse gases, energy, water, and waste.
Electrification
Over 80% of all our cranes worldwide are now electric or hybrid, moving us steadily toward our 2030 target of 90%.
Carbon Emissions Reduction
In 2024, our Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions increased by 9% compared to 2023. Amidst our ongoing efforts in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, this increase was driven by organic and inorganic business growth.
However, while our total emissions have increased, our emissions intensity per TEU continues to improve. In 2024, CO2 emissions per container dropped to 9.6 kgCO2e/TEU – a reduction of 1% compared to 2023.
Step by step towards a sustainable future – together
PSA Antwerp continues to play a vital role in contributing to the PSA Group’s overall climate goals, aligned with the targets of the Paris Climate Agreement and the EU Green Deal. By working together to transform our operations and actively involving our employees in environmental objectives, we not only meet international standards - we aim to exceed them.
Through our local Climate Response Management System and Energy Transition Plan, we are taking concrete steps toward reducing emissions, implementing sustainable solutions, and ultimately reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.
