Year: 2024

Hutchison Ports PPC has positioned itself as a leader in implementing sustainable initiatives in the port industry, not only in Panama but also at a regional level. As concerns about climate change and environmental degradation continue to rise, companies are under pressure to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt more sustainable practices.

Hutchison Ports PPC responds to this challenge with the campaign “My Goal, My Planet,” which develops a series of actions that promote the circular economy, efficient wastewater management, the use of clean energy, the gradual conversion of its fleet of vehicles and equipment from fossil fuels to electric; as well as raising awareness among its employees, suppliers, and local communities about the importance of protecting nature.

Less Waste in Landfills

The circular economy is a concept that seeks to minimize waste and make maximum use of available resources. Hutchison Ports has adopted this philosophy by implementing recycling and material reuse programs within its operations.

From October 2023 to March 2024, 168 tons of waste were collected, of which 153 were processed for subsequent use. This means that 91% of the waste did not end up in the Cerro Patacon landfill but was reused, explains Roxana Ortega, senior project and infrastructure manager at Hutchison Ports PPC.

This operation, which began in February 2023 in partnership with Panama Waste Management (PWM) and the cement company CEMEX, collects, sorts, and reuses all waste generated by the operation of the two ports.

All this waste is converted into fuel to power the kilns that produce clinker, the raw material for cement production, thus avoiding aggravating the waste problem and environmental pollution.

These 153 tons that did not go to Cerro Patacon contribute directly to reducing greenhouse gases since for every two (2) tons processed, the use of one ton of fossil fuel is avoided, and the carbon footprint is reduced, according to Joaquín Cortés from the Projects Management department.

In addition to the environmental benefit of reducing the carbon footprint, another advantage of the circular economy is the direct economic impact of this activity. According to Roxana Ortega, “when we calculated the cost of disposing of waste in the open-air landfill at Cerro Patacon versus the circular economy we use, we found that the latter is much more economical because there are costs that are sometimes not calculated, such as personnel or equipment to move the waste. Moreover, most importantly, we are contributing to reducing our negative impact on the environment since only a minimal part, just 9% of the waste, goes to the landfill”.

Beach cleaning as good practices in support of the community.

The Water Challenge

Efficient wastewater management is essential for any industrial operation. This is also a concern for the port company, which is working on a prototype system for collecting rainwater for reuse.

Additionally, it has implemented advanced systems to treat and reuse water. In collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, it develops continuous water quality monitoring programs, allowing for the detection and correction of any anomalies in real-time.

These actions not only ensure that discharged water complies with environmental regulations but also allow for the reuse of treated water for irrigation and facility cleaning.

This proactive approach not only protects nearby marine ecosystems but also ensures that port operations do not negatively affect local communities.

Aerial photo of the Balboa port in coexistence with the mangroves of this area.

Use of Clean Energy

Hutchison Ports’ commitment to sustainability includes a transition to clean energy sources. The company has significantly invested in installing solar panels in its facilities, taking advantage of Panama’s abundant sunlight.

These panels not only reduce dependence on fossil energy but also generate a significant amount of electricity, lowering long-term operating costs.

In addition to solar panels, LED lighting systems have been implemented in all its facilities. These lights not only consume less energy but also have a longer lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and decreasing electronic waste.

Solar panels on the roof of our main building.

Conversion to Electric Vehicles

In its effort to reduce carbon emissions, Hutchison Ports has initiated a program to convert its heavy equipment and fossil-fuel-powered vehicles to electric vehicles.

Ortega highlighted that, “The plan is that when equipment has reached its end of life, it will be replaced by an electric one. We have just completed the construction of two electric charging stations for heavy equipment used in operations to supply them with the necessary electricity. Also, regarding cranes and other container handling equipment, since 2010, we started the transition, first to hybrids and now fully electric. I believe we can say that currently 92% of the yards and docks operate on electricity. But it is a gradual process that will later extend to tractors and other vehicles, even those of our users and suppliers”

Electric vehicles not only produce fewer emissions but are also quieter, contributing to a more pleasant work environment and reducing noise pollution.

eECH, an electric vehicle for mobilizing containers.

Hutchison Ports is setting a standard for sustainability in the port industry through its various environmental initiatives. The circular economy, efficient wastewater management, the use of clean energy, and the conversion to electric vehicles are just some of the measures the company has adopted to reduce its carbon footprint.

By pioneering these practices in Panama, it is not only contributing to environmental protection but also demonstrating that sustainability and operational efficiency can go hand in hand.

In a world where sustainability is increasingly crucial, Hutchison Ports stands out as an example for other companies in the sector to follow.

Hutchison Ports PPC has recently received an important recognition from the company Panama Waste Management (PWM), highlighting its remarkable contribution to environmental sustainability through the responsible management of its solid waste in its port facilities.

Roxana Ortega, Senior Manager of Projects and Infrastructure at Hutchison Ports PPC, receives a certificate of recognition from representatives of the company Panama Waste Management (PWM) of PPC’s commitment to Environmental Sustainability and as a pioneer in establishing a Circular Economy model from its non-recyclable waste.

From left to right, part of the waste-to-energy initiative team is pictured: Yamitzel Moreno, Project Supervisor of the Projects and Infrastructure Department; Jesús González, Project Coordinator of the Department of Projects and Infrastructure; Leslie Von Chong, Deputy Manager of Environment of the Department of Industrial Safety; Joaquín Cortez, Maintenance Supervisor of the Department of Projects and Infrastructure; Manuel Abrahams, Manager of Industrial Safety, Occupational Health and Environment; Rogelio Castillo, Deputy Manager of Industrial Safety.

• An example of Circular Economy in action

In recent months, the company efficiently collected and managed around 168 tonnes of waste at PPC’s facilities. Of this total, 91%, or 153 tons of non-recyclable waste, was used to generate clean and sustainable energy. This energy was used to power the boilers of the cement company Cemex, specifically in the production of Clinker.

By implementing this innovative strategy, PPC becomes a pioneer in generating a circular economy model from its non-recyclable waste. This systematic approach minimizes the company’s environmental impacts while maximizing the value of its resources.

• Contributing to the Mitigation of the Litter Problem

This initiative also represents a significant contribution to the mitigation of the serious problem of garbage and environmental pollution that affects Panama. The project prevents this non-recyclable waste from being deposited in open-air landfills such as the one in “Cerro Patacon”, among others. This, in turn, drastically reduces the environmental impact and footprint, as well as the emissions derived from the use of fossil fuels.

• A Commitment to a Sustainable Future

In this way, Hutchison Ports reaffirms its unwavering commitment to creating a greener world and a sustainable future for generations to come. The company demonstrates, through concrete actions, its leadership in the implementation of environmentally responsible practices and its active contribution to the well-being of the planet.

The Delegation received a tour of the port facilities, showcasing Balboa’s advanced infrastructure, best practices in port management, cargo handling strategies, and sustainability initiatives. By sharing best practices and fostering knowledge exchange, ports like Balboa and Ajman can continue to evolve and contribute to a more efficient and sustainable maritime industry for the future.

As part of Earth Day, Hutchison Ports PPC carried out a beach cleanup day in the vicinity of the port of Balboa and the Bridge of the Americas in La Boca, Ancón. The initiative, which is part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) actions, had the participation of 200 volunteers, including PPC employees, community members, allied companies and students from the International Maritime University of Panama (UMIP).

Together, the volunteers managed to collect around 4 tons of garbage, including plastics, bottles, tires, fishing nets, appliances and other waste that polluted the marine and coastal ecosystem. It should be noted that, in line with their commitment to reducing emissions, the volunteers were transported to the different points of the cleanup in a 100% electric bus. This action reflects Hutchison Ports’ approach to sustainability and its commitment to a greener future.

This activity is part of the ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) initiatives that Hutchison Ports has been developing through its “Go Green” program, with the aim of becoming the preferred strategic ally in a sustainable supply chain and fulfilling its commitment to be carbon neutral by 2050 or earlier.

“At Hutchison Ports Panama we are convinced that collaboration between different sectors is essential to face the environmental challenges facing our planet,” said one of the organizers. “For this reason, we are proud to have joined forces with the community, allied companies and the Maritime University of Panama to carry out this successful beach cleanup day, reaffirming our commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection.”

The active participation of 200 volunteers from various sectors of society demonstrates the importance of building partnerships for sustainable development. The success of the day ratifies Hutchison Ports’ leadership in the maritime port industry, not only in Panama, but also throughout the region, consolidating its commitment to environmental responsibility and the well-being of communities.

The company will continue to work to promote sustainable practices in its operations and contribute to building a greener future for generations to come.

Hutchison Ports is committed to building a more sustainable, more responsible and planet-friendly company, preserving natural resources for current and future generations.

The celebration was filled with laughter and camaraderie as employees enjoyed delicious food, engaging games, and activities, as well as lively music. PPC Senior Management personally greeted guests and helped distribute the food. For 27 years, teamwork and recognizing the value of each individual has echoed PPC’s commitment to its greatest asset, its people!

PPC is driving towards a greener future with new EV charging stations for its heavy equipment fleet. These stations will power not just the recently acquired electric Empty Container Handlers, but also future additions like Reach Stackers and Forklifts.

This Project aims to slash diesel consumption per TEU and propel PPC towards net-zero emissions targets.

PPC’s scholarship program’s objectives are to reward and recognize the importance of education and the academic excellence of the children of its employees and at the same time to motivate them and provide support to continue year after year the path to personal growth and academic improvement.

Hutchison Ports PPC had the honor of welcoming a group of talented women from the LIFE Women Program to the Balboa Terminal. This initiative is dedicated to empowering female leadership in mid-level and managerial roles within the Latin American maritime and port industry.

During the visit, Hutchison Ports PPC CEO, Jared Zerbe, warmly welcomed the participants, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and gender equality in the industry’s growth and development. Roxana Ortega, Project Manager at Hutchison Ports PPC, delivered an insightful presentation on climate change, highlighting the company’s commitment to social, governance, and environmental initiatives as part of its sustainable progress strategy.

The experience included a technical tour of the Balboa Terminal, where the participants gained valuable insights into port operations and explored innovations that keep Hutchison Ports PPC at the forefront of industry.

Hutchison Ports PPC extends its gratitude to the Panama Maritime Authority and Empresa Multimodal for making this important exchange possible. The event provided a platform to share our vision and expertise with professionals committed to shaping the future of the maritime-port industry.

With this visit, Hutchison Ports PPC reaffirms its commitment to sustainability, gender equality, and the development of leaders who drive positive changes in the maritime-port sector.

Together, we continue to build a more inclusive and sustainable future.