Impact on biodiversity

The operations of our terminals impact biodiversity in different ways. Here is a brief accounting for each terminal.

Baltimore. Operations have an impact on biodiversity in the Chesapeake Bay, a 64,000-square-mile watershed deemed a national treasure for its vast tidal wetlands, islands and rich ecosystem. We are actively engaged with the Maryland Port Administration in its efforts to reduce pollutant runoff into the bay. By implementing more effective storm water management, we are working to reduce the amount of runoff from our operations.

Southampton. One of the major deep-water ports in Britain for vehicle import and export, this UK terminal has no significant impact on biodiversity along the surrounding coast. The Oceanography Institute in Southampton monitors the water near the dock at regular intervals to detect any negative impact of port operations on the marine environment.

Zeebrugge. Operations at this Belgian port have minimal impact on biodiversity. Mussels are harvested from the quay front to discourage seagulls from feeding in the area and contaminating the terminal and cars with debris and bird droppings. In addition, an audio device has been installed to keep birds away from the open-air storage areas.

Kotka. No significant impact on biodiversity has been recorded as a result of our operations.