The Port of Tyne now operates a Net Zero Port Centric Warehouse, run entirely using clean energy from renewable sources.
Warehouse 21 is used by a wide range of the port’s 3PL customers, including many household brand names. All internal materials handling within the warehouse is conducted using electric vehicles powered through renewable sources and the lighting within the facility is provided by energy efficient LEDs.
As part of Tyne 2050, the Port’s transformation strategy, over £2m (US$2.7 million) has already been invested into new clean energy assets and logistics facilities. This includes energy efficient LED lighting across the entire port estate and electrified materials handling equipment, all supported by an advanced warehouse management system.
A fully Net Zero warehouse demonstrates the Port’s ongoing commitment to helping its 3PL customers achieve their environmental sustainability targets, whilst also improving the carbon footprint of the wider logistics and transport industry, according to a statement.
“Offering green warehousing services is critical to our 3PL customers, because it means these businesses can source the space they need, while also meeting their sustainability targets,” said Matt Beeton, CEO at the Port of Tyne. “Net Zero achievements are a key part of our Tyne 2050 strategy and at a time when there is exceptional demand for warehousing, we can offer customers the advantage of high quality port centric warehousing, efficiency and sustainability.”
The Port of Tyne set out ambitious environmental sustainability targets in its Tyne 2050 strategy, including becoming a carbon neutral port by 2030 and all-electric by 2040.
In addition, the UK port intends to become a test bed for new clean energy technology by 2025. A range of initiatives are already well underway to enable the port to achieve these objectives and by the end of 2021, over 27% of total CO2 emissions will have been reduced through switching to clean alternatives.
In 2020, these improvements were recognised by Maritime UK, which awarded the Port of Tyne two industry awards, for Clean Energy Operator and Clean Energy Enabler.