Air quality, odour and noise

Where climate change calls for a global approach, good air quality is primarily a local challenge. Port of Antwerp-Bruges strives to continuously improve the air quality in the broad surroundings of Antwerp and Zeebrugge by reducing the emissions of particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NO_x) in the port area. Sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emissions were also a concern at one time, but thanks to strict requirements imposed on industry and because the port is a low-emission zone for ships, we have that well under control.

Together with the Flemish Environment Agency, we constantly monitor the air quality in the Antwerp port area. Though we have visibly improved since 2000, we must continue our efforts.

And we too are doing our bit ourselves. Not only are we greening our own fleet, we are also working on the transition to a multifuel port with alternative low emission fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia and methanol. For example, both ports are developing tugs powered by green hydrogen (retrofit in Zeebrugge and a new tugboat in Antwerp) or green methanol. With the knowledge of both platforms as pioneers in the bunkering of LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas), Port of Antwerp-Bruges wants to be a forerunner in the use of these new shipping fuels, which not only emit less CO₂ but also less PM and NO_x.

Is there a bad smell at the port? There could be a lot of reasons for that. For example, it could be caused by the loading or unloading of ships, but also by normal residues released during industrial processes. The wind direction determines in which direction the odour spreads further.

Depending on the nature of the report, the emergency services will go out to trace the source and take measurements to assess the health risk. If it is found that there is a potential health risk, the emergency services will announce measures (e.g., closing windows and doors).

Port of Antwerp-Bruges helps the emergency services to trace the source using various data. If the source is found, the culprit is asked to take measures to reduce the nuisance as soon as possible. If it is found that violations against the legislation have occurred, the competent authorities will be informed.

You can report odour nuisance using the port's reporting and info point. All reports relating to the port area are always investigated and dealt with through cooperation between the port authority and the city of Bruges (for Zeebrugge) and the Environmental Department (for Antwerp).

Together with terminals and shipping companies, we are investigating what measures are needed to limit any noise pollution from port activities as much as possible. In addition to reducing noise pollution from industrial and logistics facilities, replacing the older generation of ships with more modern and especially quieter ships will have a major impact.

These new vessels are equipped with batteries or with an onshore power connection, so that in the future they will not need to run generators for their on-board power supply during their stay at the quay.