Port of Tarragona achieves first PERS Certification

The Port of Tarragona in Spain has  achieved its first PERS certification under the EcoPorts environmental management standard. Having been an EcoPorts member since 2014, this marks an important milestone in the port’s environmental management journey.

Isabelle Ryckbost, ESPO Secretary General of Europe Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO) has commended the Port of Tarragona over this development.

“I would like to congratulate the Port of Tarragona for its PERS certification but above all for all its efforts towards becoming more sustainable, both through an ambitious OPS development plan, initiatives on water conservation and energy consumption, and their efforts in view of improving the modal shift towards rail,” said Isabelle Ryckbost.

Tim Verhoeven, ESPO Senior Policy Advisor and EcoPorts Coordinator, indicated: “We congratulate the Port of Tarragona on achieving its PERS certification. This milestone reflects your strong commitment to sustainability, from advancing decarbonisation and energy efficiency to protecting biodiversity and fostering collaboration through innovative initiatives. Your continuous efforts to improve environmental performance and engage both stakeholders and the wider community truly set an inspiring example for ports across Europe.”

PERS (Port Environmental Review System) is the only port-specific environmental standard. The last five years have seen important increases in its recognition and membership, with 80 ports from 24 countries currently counting themselves as part of the EcoPorts Network, and 32 ports holding PERS certification. Compliance with the EcoPorts’ PERS standard is independently assessed by LRQA Nederland B.V. and the certificate has a validity of two years. EcoPorts’ PERS is revised after the 2-year period, ensuring ports continuously meet the requirements.