The Port of Newcastle was granted membership of the International EcoPorts network, becoming the first port in Australia and New Zealand to commit to meeting the group's environmental and sustainability standards.

"Port of Newcastle is pleased to be part of a global network of ports operating within an established environmental and sustainability framework that understands and actively addresses the complex aspects of port operations," said Port of Newcastle environmental adviser Jackie Spiteri.  "We not only commit to meeting EcoPort's world's-best practice standards, but will work with other ports across the region to champion the environmental and sustainability benefits available for the maritime industry."

Port of Newcastle is expanding automation and electrification in its operations to improive efficiency, reduce emissions, and minimise its environmental impact.  This involves reducing fuel, power and water consumption across its operations in order to reduce its environmental impact.  The $33 Million Newcastle Bulk Terminal upgrade also features a new ship unloader with state-of-the-art crane and conveyor infrastructure.  

The EcoPorts standards were developed two decades ago and are the only Environmental Management Standard (EMS) specific to the global port sector.