AD Ports completes ESIA for terminal at Safaga Port
AD Ports Group (AD Ports) has completed a comprehensive environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA), as part of their 30-year concession agreement with the Red Sea Port Authority (RSPA).
This assessment is a crucial step for the development and operation of a multi-purpose terminal at Safaga Port.
The ESIA was conducted using diverse scientific methodologies, complying with Egypt’s national regulations and International Requirements, including Egypt’s Law No. 4 of 1994 for environmental protection, the IFC Performance Standards, and the World Bank Group’s EHS Guidelines.
Highlighted within the assessment’s findings were the significant benefits of the project, including economic growth through stimulating local economies, job creation, and boosting regional economic activity.
Leveraging AD Ports Group’s experience in developing advanced port infrastructure, the terminal is well-positioned to improve accessibility and connectivity, while adopting environmentally friendly practices that will reduce pollution and conserve natural resources, reported AD Ports.
Comprehensive plans have been established, which include mitigation measures to address potential negative impacts during construction and operational phases, including dust emissions, noise levels, waste management, and occupational health and safety.
This environmental management plan further outlines procedures for environmental management, self-monitoring, and social management, ensuring sustainable and responsible practices.
In parallel with the ESIA, the design of the multi-purpose terminal is aiming for net-zero certifications for two of its buildings, while incorporating various sustainable design features in the buildings and infrastructure. These features include carefully selected low-carbon materials, as well as energy and water efficient systems.
The terminal is designed to handle 6 million metric tonnes of bulk cargo, 450,000 TEU of containers, and more than 50,000 RoRo units.
AD Ports Group intends to focus on developing the upper infrastructure, including buildings, facilities, and superstructures.
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Saif Al Mazrouei, Chief Executive Officer, Ports Cluster, AD Ports Group, said: “As a group, we are committed to sustainable and responsible port development, particularly in the communities in which we operate, so that we can actively contribute, positively, to the local economy and environment.
“However, we understand that our commitment extends beyond infrastructure and, together with the Red Sea Port Authority, we hope to create meaningful change that drives sustainable economic growth.”
In December 2023, AD Ports formed a joint venture with Kazakhstan Temir Zholy JSC (Kazakhstan Railways) to boost rail connectivity, maritime services, port operations, and digital transformation in Central Asia.
More recently, AD Ports and Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC – Masdar, a UAE renewable energy company, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the margins of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai.
Source: porttechnology.org
