BU academics have supported the development of a Decarbonisation Plan for the Port of Poole, which aims to reach net zero by 2050.
The Port of PooleDeveloped by Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC) in collaboration with tenants on the Port Estate, Bournemouth University and BCP Council, with technical expertise from Royal HaskoningDHV, the plan outlines a roadmap for achieving net zero emissions.
Poole Harbour is one of the world’s largest natural harbours and the Port of Poole handles a wide variety of vessels, including cross-channel ferries, superyachts and cargo vessels.
A Baseline Emissions inventory was undertaken at the site to establish emission hotspots and develop targeted measures.
Emissions were calculated from data from organisations across the Port of Poole and included activities such as fuel consumption, electricity use, road vehicles and marine vessels.
It showed that marine vessel emissions contributed to approximately 70% of total emissions, followed by buildings on the site and landside activities, such as road traffic and port operations – which each accounted for around 15% of emissions.
The plan sets out a roadmap for emission reduction at the Port of Poole, leading to net zero by 2050 and a 40% reduction by 2035 - focusing on innovative technologies, sustainable practices, and collaboration with key stakeholders.
Actions include the adoption of alternative fuels, electrification of port operations, and improvements in energy efficiency.
The plan also emphasises partnerships with local businesses, research institutions, and governmental bodies to ensure a holistic approach to decarbonisation.
Dr Mili Shrivastava, Deputy Head of the Centre for Sustainable Business Transformations at Bournemouth University, who supported the project, said:
“This project at the Port of Poole showcases the power of collaboration and a shared commitment to decarbonisation. Bournemouth University Business School is pleased to contribute research and strategic expertise while strongly emphasising broader stakeholder engagement, recognising its vital role in supporting this initiative.
“By collaborating with diverse stakeholders, we are dedicated to driving meaningful change, promoting prosperity through sustainability, and creating a more resilient future.”
Funding for the project was provided by the Local Industrial Decarbonisation Plans Funding Competition, run by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, in collaboration with Innovate UK - UK Research and Innovation.
Captain Brian Murphy, PHC’s CEO, said: "This Decarbonisation Plan is a testament to the commitment of all of the organisations on the Port of Poole estate and partners, to environmental responsibility and sustainable growth. It reflects our proactive approach to addressing decarbonisation and enhancing the resilience of our maritime operations."
Rosie Macnamara, PHC’s Strategic Projects Manager who managed the project, added: "Our goal is to set a benchmark for sustainable port management, not only in Poole but across the UK. By implementing this ambitious Plan, we aim to significantly reduce our carbon footprint while promoting economic growth and innovation within the maritime sector."
The full Decarbonisation Plan can be found on the Poole Harbour Commissioners website.
