Environmental responsibility – the carbon dioxide emissions of the port areas decreased by 12%

Carbon dioxide emissions generated in the Port of Helsinki’s port areas were decreased by 12% from the previous year. The greatest reduction took place in vessel traffic emissions.

Carbon dioxide emissions in the Port of Helsinki’s port areas consist of ship and machinery emissions, rubber-wheeled traffic emissions and emissions from the port company’s own operations. Vessel traffic plays clearly the most significant role.

Vessel emissions in the closed port area and water areas administrated by the Port of Helsinki are included in the port area emissions. Entering the port, being at berth, manoeuvring and leaving the port are all included. As regards land traffic, emissions generated in the closed port area are included.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and related travel restrictions, the volume of port traffic in 2021 was clearly lower than usual. This had a positive effect on the carbon dioxide emissions of the port area.

Carbon dioxide emissions from vessel traffic down

In 2021, the total amount of emissions in the port areas was 67,100 CO2 tonnes.
The reduction from the previous year was 9,300 tonnes and 12%.

By emission category, the absolute carbon dioxide emissions were as follows:

  • Ship emissions 51,600 tonnes (-16% from 2020)
  • Machinery emissions 7,600 tonnes (+3%)
  • Rubber-wheeled traffic emissions 6,300 tonnes (+4%)
  • Emissions from the Port’s own operations 1,608 tonnes (+10%)

Options for low-carbon machinery were surveyed

With its operations, the Port of Helsinki also promotes low-emission land traffic solutions. The electrification of machinery and vehicles plays an important role in this, along with the related development of the operating environment.

  • The Port of Helsinki took part in a VTT study surveying low-carbon options for the machinery of Vuosaari Harbour. According to the survey, published in April, reduction measures should prioritise straddle carriers and terminal tractors, as these machines are estimated to generate more than three quarters of all machinery emissions in the Vuosaari Harbour area. Electrification appears to be an efficient solution in terms of emissions and costs alike.The survey report also proposes new technology pilots for 2021–2027, in addition to which a calculation tool was created for port operators to be used for machinery emission and cost assessments.
  • The Satamaparkki car park, which opened in the spring of 2021, features 18 charging stations for electric cars. On premium parking spots, electricity is included in the parking fee.
  • Late in the year, the Port made a decision to add electric car charging infrastructure for work cars by the Satamatalo building. The actual construction will take place in 2022.