International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) has announced the launch of its Climate Change Action Initiative aimed to drive its sustainability efforts further.

The global port operator said the move underscores ICTSI's efforts to decarbonize and contribute to global efforts in addressing climate change.

"Recognizing the urgent need to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the initiative will develop a comprehensive roadmap for ICTSI to align its business strategy with the goals of the UN Climate Change Paris Agreement," ICTSI said in a statement.

It added that this roadmap would set decarbonization targets for the entire ICTSI Group to include all terminals, covering Scope 1 — direct emissions and Scope 2 — indirect emissions from the generation of purchased electricity.

ICTSI said it would announce a decarbonization target for Scope 1 and 2 by the end of 2023. 

Furthermore, the Manila-headquartered port operator is working towards accounting for the full GHG emissions footprint of the entire value chain, including Scope 3 emissions.

It said that an inventory is expected to be established by 2025, followed by a review of relevant targets.

"Through the launch of our Climate Change Action Initiative, we are demonstrating our commitment to a sustainable future. By decarbonizing our operations and addressing the challenges of climate change, ICTSI aims to contribute significantly to the global efforts towards a greener and more resilient world," said Christian R. Gonzalez, ICTSI executive vice president, compliance officer and chief sustainability officer.

"We believe that by embracing innovative solutions and fostering collaboration, we can create a positive impact on both the environment and our industry," he added.

To ensure a credible decarbonization strategy, ICTSI has appointed an internal team led by Nathan Clarke, vice president and head of Global Engineering – Infrastructure and Project Delivery.

Additionally, the services of Jacobs Solutions, Inc., an international consulting firm, have been engaged to provide an accurate view of emissions across ICTSI terminals and develop a tangible roadmap for emission reductions.

ICTSI noted that the collaboration would establish a GHG emissions baseline, develop plans for reducing GHG emissions, set targets and create a framework to monitor performance.

ICTSI noted that its commitment to sustainability is further exemplified by three of its terminals in the Americas — Contecon Guayaquil in Ecuador, Contecon Manzanillo in Mexico, and Rio Brasil Terminal in Brazil — receiving carbon-neutral certifications.

These achievements underscore ICTSI's proactive measures to minimize the impact of port operations on hinterland communities.

"As a responsible global industry leader, ICTSI is taking a holistic approach to combat climate change and proactively mitigate its environmental impact. The Climate Change Action Initiative serves as a catalyst for transformative action, enabling ICTSI to play a pivotal role in the transition to a low-carbon economy," Gonzales said.