In 2024, greenhouse gas emissions from companies operating within the port area saw a significant reduction of 1.7 million tonnes, representing an 8% decrease compared to the emissions in 2023. Notably, this year’s figures include previously unregistered emissions and other types of greenhouse gas emissions, providing a more comprehensive accounting. Consequently, the total greenhouse gas emissions from all companies within the port amounted to 19.2 million tonnes in 2024. This indicates a positive step towards reducing the port’s overall environmental impact, reports Port of Rotterdam.
Reduction In Greenhouse Gas
Collectively, the five power plants located within the port of Rotterdam demonstrated a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in 2024, emitting 0.7 million tonnes (Mton), which represents a 12% decrease compared to their emissions in 2023. This substantial reduction is primarily attributed to a decrease in electricity generation from coal-fired power plants.
On a national level, the Netherlands also saw a positive trend in the electricity sector, with emissions decreasing by 3%. This reduction is credited to the continued expansion of electricity generation from renewable sources, specifically wind and solar power.
Furthermore, industries operating within the port of Rotterdam also contributed to emissions reduction, with their greenhouse gas emissions in 2024 being 1 Mton (7%) lower than in the preceding year (2023).
Total Emissions
The total greenhouse gas emissions from the industrial complex within the port of Rotterdam amounted to 19.2 million tonnes (Mton) in 2024. This figure is comprised of several components:
- CO2 emissions from 42 companies subject to the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS): 18.1 Mton CO2 emissions.
- CO2 emissions from 22 non-ETS companies subject to registration: 0.23 Mton CO2 emissions.
- Estimated unregistered emissions from other companies within the port: 0.75 Mton CO2 emissions.
- Other greenhouse gas emissions from companies within the port: 0.12 Mton CO2 equivalents.
Notably, this year marks the first time that the Port of Rotterdam Authority has retroactively included other greenhouse gases and estimated CO2 emissions from unregistered companies in their total emissions calculation. The Port Authority relied on an estimate provided by the research and consultancy firm CE Delft for the unregistered emissions data.
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Source: Port of Rotterdam
