Porto Itapoá, a prominent player in Brazil’s port industry, is making waves by spearheading environmental initiatives and setting a new standard for sustainable practices. Notably, the port is set to become the first in Brazil to integrate carbon credits into its operations through the innovative Carbon Neutralization Project, a collaboration with the Ambipar Group. This groundbreaking project, commencing in 2024, allows terminal customers to purchase carbon credits certified by Ambipar, derived from forest conservation or reforestation, to offset their emissions.

Sergni Pessoa Rosa Jr., the director of Operations, Technology, and Environment at Porto Itapoá, emphasizes the significance of this initiative, positioning the port as a trailblazer in the carbon credit market. This forward-thinking approach is expected to have a ripple effect throughout the entire logistics chain, showcasing Porto Itapoá’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

In addition to the Carbon Neutralization Project, Porto Itapoá has revamped its energy acquisition policy, opting to exclusively consume renewable energy in new contracts starting in 2023. This shift is certified by I-REC(e), a global tracking system for renewable energy attributes, ensuring reliable accounting of renewable energy consumption.

The port is also embarking on a solar energy capture project, conducting a pilot study with installed panels to assess solar light incidence in Itapoá. The data gathered will serve as a foundation for future solar energy projects not only for Porto Itapoá but for the entire municipality, contributing to the broader adoption of sustainable energy practices.

Porto Itapoá’s commitment to environmental excellence is further underscored by its achievement of the Gold Seal of the GHG Protocol in 2023 for the second time. This accolade, implemented by the Center for Sustainability Studies at the Getúlio Vargas Foundation (FGVces) in collaboration with the Ministry of the Environment, recognizes the port’s dedication to reducing carbon emissions. The port has also invested over R$ 25 million in new autonomous RTGs, positioning itself as the first terminal in South America to operate these innovative machines, which consume up to three times less fuel than conventional ones.

For Sergni Pessoa Rosa Jr., the director of Operations, Technology, and Environment, Porto Itapoá’s commitment to economic development intertwined with socio-environmental responsibility reflects the most sustainable path for a company. The aim is to create an environment where all stakeholders can coexist harmoniously in a healthy and sustainable ecosystem.