Presenting theEuropean ports gathered in the EcoPorts network honoured today at GreenPort 2010 EcoPorts Chairman Herman Journée (Port of Amsterdam) for his achievements and the substantive contribution that he has made through his dedication and tenacity to the goals of sustainable development of port operations.

Presenting the honorary certificate, EcoPorts Board Member and former ESPO Chairman David Whitehead said: “European ports pay tribute and record with grateful thanks their appreciation of Herman’s determination and guidance in delivering effective environmental management through the concept of ‘ports helping ports’”.

The EcoPorts concepts and aims, initiated in 1993, have delivered demonstrable success in implementing major policy objectives through the knowledge network and application of practicable tools and methodologies. ESPO recommends that port authorities use these well established tools in their efforts to deliver environmental improvement and sustainable development through effective environmental management programmes.

From 1 January 2011 onwards the EcoPorts environmental tools and support services as well as associated R&D activities will be fully integrated within ESPO’s functional structure. This will extend the EcoPorts network to all ESPO members.