Initiatives & Accomplishments
Here are a few recent examples of projects undertaken by the HPA in support of our environmental stewardship:
South End Container Terminal Lighting Project
The 20-year-old lighting system at the South End Container Terminal was replaced with a more efficient lighting system, effectively doubling the light on the terminal while cutting electricity use by at least 30 per cent. These new lights will save about 500 tonnes of greenhouse gases per year.
Cruise Initiatives
We have developed standard practices and procedures for cruise ships. The cruise lines are supportive of these initiatives and many of the lines have extensive standards and systems as well.
For more information please visit: http://www.cruising.org/industry/environment.cfm
Green Marine Certification
HPA became a member of Green Marine in 2010. Winner of the Green Shipping Initiative of the Year at the International Sustainable Shipping Awards 2011, Green Marine’s environmental program targets a number of issues including greenhouse gases, cargo waste management, conflicts of use (noise, dust, odours, and luminous pollution), water and land pollution prevention and environmental leadership. Green Marine’s voluntary participants agree to undergo a rigorous external audit every two years to validate and reinforce the credibility of environmental program results.
ShareReady Electric Vehicle Pilot Program
‘ShareReady’ is an electric vehicle pilot program initiated by Nova Scotia Power Inc., O’Regan’s Automotive Group and Nissan Canada.
As part of the program, Nova Scotia Power ordered 10 electric cars for distribution to various partners. In partnership, the HPA purchased a 2012 Nissan LEAF SL and charging station, positioned in the parking lot in front of the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market. The vehicle is operated by HPA’s high-mileage drivers.
The Nissan LEAF produces no tailpipe emissions, has a range of 160 kilometres and requires only $3 of electricity per 100 kilometres.
Berthing Improvement Projects
To reduce the carbon footprint of our major construction activities, HPA is re-using clean rock from the harbour as infill material for our berthing improvement projects, saving the carbon emissions and costs from trucking new material to the project sites.