In recognition of its efforts at environmental sustainability, the Ports of Indiana has become the first state-wide port authority to receive the environmental certification known as Green Marine.
The certification applies to three ports in all: Indiana-Burns Harbor, Indiana-Jeffersonville and Indiana-Mount Vernon. All are now recognized by the voluntary initiative, which has the goal of upping regulatory efforts against aquatic invasive species, greenhouse gases, and air pollutants, while also encouraging spill prevention, dry bulk handling and storage, community impact, stormwater and waste management, underwater noise and greater environmental leadership in general.
“The Ports of Indiana is taking the maritime industry to the next level,” Indiana Gov. Eric J. Holcomb said. “From stormwater management to community impact, the Green Marine certification verifies the Ports of Indiana’s performance, achievements, and commitment to implement continuous improvement across our port system.”
For Green Marine, this represents notable compliance gains in its 11th year — including the first participating ports along the Ohio River and Upper Mississippi Basin. The certification was issued at the organization’s annual GreenTech conference.
“We’re so pleased to have the Jefferson and Mount Vernon ports join the Burns Harbor location that has been certified annually since 2014,” David Bolduc, executive director for Green Marine, said. “Seeking Green Marine certification for the entirety of the State’s port network clearly demonstrates the commitment by the Ports of Indiana to greener practices.”