The Rise of Green Ports and the Future of Sustainable Maritime Infrastructure in Indonesia

By Pangngo Lyana, BD Manager – Belt and Road Initiative, Bureau Veritas Indonesia

As global industries shift toward sustainability, the maritime sector is embracing a transformative concept: the Green Port. A Green Port embodies eco-friendly practices that minimize environmental harm, optimize energy use, and protect ecosystems while supporting economic growth. Given that maritime transport accounts for approximately 2.89% of global CO2 emissions annually, the need for greener ports has never been more urgent.

What It Takes to Become a Green Port?

Achieving Green Port status requires implementing advanced systems and practices that ensure efficiency without compromising the environment. Key criteria include:
- Energy Efficiency: Ports adopting renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power report energy savings of up to 30%, reducing operational costs and reliance on fossil fuels.
- Emission Control: Shore power facilities can cut greenhouse gas emissions from docked ships by up to 90%, contributing significantly to cleaner air quality.
- Waste Management: Ports employing modern waste systems have reduced marine waste dumping by as much as 40%, protecting aquatic biodiversity.
- Biodiversity Preservation: Initiatives like mangrove planting around port areas reduce coastal erosion and absorb CO2 emissions.
- Technology Integration: Digitalized operations enhance efficiency, with some ports reporting up to 20% faster cargo handling while reducing resource wastage.

The Growth of Green Ports in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia, a hub for global maritime trade, is gradually incorporating Green Port practices. However, only a handful of ports have earned full Green Terminal certifications, underscoring the untapped potential in the region. Notably:

Despite progress, Sabah Ports stands out as the first in Southeast Asia to achieve the prestigious Green Terminal Label Certification, marking a pivotal moment for the region's maritime sustainability efforts. In Indonesia, several port operators have received recognition for their efforts in adopting green initiatives. These ports are leading the way toward a more sustainable and efficient maritime future in Indonesia.

- Private Terminal for Petrokimia Gresik
- PT Krakatau Bandar Samudera - Krakatau Bandar Samudera General Terminal
- Special Terminal PT Pupuk Kalimantan Timur
- PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional 3 Sub Regional Bali Nusra - Benoa Port
- PT Pelindo Terminal Petikemas - Semarang Container Terminal
- PT Terminal Teluk Lamong, PT IPC Container Terminal - Tanjung Priok
- PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional 3 - Tenau Kupang Port
- PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional 2 Banten - Ciwandan Port
- PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional 2 Pontianak - Kijing Terminal

Sabah Ports: A Beacon of Leadership

In 2024, Sabah Ports in Malaysia achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first port in Southeast Asia to receive the Green Terminal Label Certification. This accolade reflects its unwavering commitment to reducing carbon emissions, adopting renewable energy, and implementing innovative technologies that enhance operational sustainability. The achievement highlights the port's leadership in the region, inspiring others to prioritize environmental conservation alongside economic development.

Indonesia: A Maritime Nation with Great Promise

As the world’s largest archipelagic country with over 17,000 islands, Indonesia has a unique opportunity to champion Green Port initiatives. With its pivotal position in global trade routes, investing in Green Ports could:
- Boost Trade Competitiveness: Green Ports attract global shipping lines seeking sustainable supply chain partners.
- Support Economic Growth: Ports contribute over 23% of Indonesia's GDP, and greener operations can ensure long-term prosperity.
- Protect Marine Biodiversity: Indonesia’s coral reefs, which account for 76% of the world’s species, depend on reduced pollution from port activities.

Why Green Ports Are the Future?

Transitioning to Green Ports isn't just an environmental imperative—it’s a strategic decision for long-term growth. Studies show that ports with sustainable practices experience 15-20% operational cost reductions while gaining a competitive edge in global trade networks. Moreover, public support for environmentally conscious businesses is at an all-time high, making Green Ports an ethical and profitable choice.

Sabah Ports has set a remarkable precedent by being the first in Southeast Asia to receive the Green Terminal Label Certification, proving that environmental and economic goals can go hand in hand. As a maritime powerhouse, Indonesia is well-positioned to build on this momentum, leading Southeast Asia toward a greener, more sustainable maritime future.