In recent years, discussions among port authorities have often revolved around determining the largest port.
However, today, when the CEOs of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, North Sea Port, Duisburger Hafen AG, and Port of Rotterdam convene, their focus has shifted. Rather than comparing cargo volumes, they now seek to collaborate in ensuring a sustainable future for the European shipping industry.
As the European industry summit approaches on 17 and 18 April, these ports urge European government leaders to follow suit, prioritizing solutions for the challenges facing the shipping sector.
The manufacturing sector in the region encompassing the Flemish-Dutch ports and the German Ruhr area plays a significant role in European production. Companies operating in sectors like chemicals and steel are strategically located in these ports due to the abundant supply of fossil-based raw materials and energy. However, these industries are also substantial contributors to carbon emissions and thus bear a significant responsibility to swiftly reduce their environmental impact.
Moreover, these companies serve as vital pillars for various European industries, including electronics, pharmaceuticals, and the manufacturing of renewable energy technologies like wind turbines, insulation materials, and solar cells. Yet, the multinational headquarters of these firms are now questioning their future viability in Europe, raising concerns among stakeholders about the region's industrial sustainability.
According to a statement, recognizing this critical juncture, the ports are committed to spearheading efforts to enhance the investment climate for sustainable industrial practices in Europe. The interconnectedness of companies within the triangle, facilitated by an extensive network of pipelines, fosters collaboration, resource sharing, and expertise exchange. As the ports and industrial clusters transition towards sustainable practices, they are upgrading infrastructure to accommodate future-oriented raw materials and energy sources, such as hydrogen.
This collective effort entails collaborative planning and investment to ensure the efficient functioning of a sustainable industry ecosystem. However, it is acknowledged that there is room for improvement in the frequency and effectiveness of joint initiatives.
"As the landlords of large industrial complexes, we aim to work on the basis of a shared vision. Space in ports is already scarce and processes such as more sustainable, circular production require much more space and may sometimes have a temporary, additional environmental impact. We therefore want to work together to figure out which activities we really need in Europe. Where is that space available, both physically and in terms of regulation? What will our ports and industry look like in 2050 when they have become climate-neutral? A common answer to these questions will only be found and succeed if our governments also look at the industry from an international perspective," said the joint statement.
The ports urge European government leaders to align themselves with industry interests. Energy-intensive companies operating in Europe face significantly higher costs compared to their counterparts in other regions, alongside navigating complex regulatory frameworks. Meanwhile, in the United States, the substantial support package provided by the Inflation Reduction Act is enticing companies to invest in modernization efforts there.
Without corresponding support from governments, the momentum for sustainable investment in Europe risks stagnation, potentially prompting industries to relocate outside the continent. Consequently, existing facilities may be kept operational beyond their intended lifespan, eventually leading to their closure. Such a scenario would increase reliance on imports from non-European sources, posing adverse effects on climate goals, strategic autonomy, and economic prosperity.
"More and more people are suggesting that, if further money must be spent, we may be better off losing industry rather than retaining it. We understand their hesitation. The industry does not come without certain disadvantages and will not stop using fossil resources and emitting CO2 overnight. This requires a transition and maximum effort from everyone. We hope that industry will find this in Europe; after all, it provides crucial support for our ports, along with logistics and the energy sectors. The sectors represent about US$67 billion in added value and over half a million jobs. That is why European government leaders need to merge climate and industrial policies in their five-year plan, as recently highlighted by European business in "The Antwerp Declaration for a European Industrial Deal." Let's maintain healthy competition and strengthen our cooperation on the energy transition," said the port in their joint announcement.
