Environmental Statement EMAS

This section presents the Environmental Statement of the Port Authority of the Port of Barcelona. It is a memorandum document that publicly and reliably reports on the current status and the evolution of the indicators of the European EMAS Regulation in terms of eco-management and auditing.

The Port of Barcelona is one of the first port organizations worldwide to have adopted and maintained its Management System based on the EMAS Regulation (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme). This is a voluntary system of communication and excellence that complements the requirements of the ISO 14001 standard.

This commitment allows it to go beyond mere regulatory compliance, driving continuous improvement and full transparency. The Port of Barcelona thus strengthens its reputation as a reliable and responsible partner. In a world that demands genuine commitment to sustainability, the Port of Barcelona not only follows the path—it leads it, and is transparent in the validated information it presents.

-78%
Total water consumption
Total water consumption at the APB facilities in 2024 was 15,524 m³, representing a 78% reduction compared to 2021.
100%
Renewable energy
100% of the energy consumed comes from sources certified as renewable, ensuring that the electricity used is clean.

Water consumption and responsible energy

In a context of climate emergency and periods of drought, responsible water management is a priority for the Port of Barcelona. The Barcelona Port Authority (APB) has implemented rigorous measures to optimize consumption, ensuring efficient and sustainable administration of this vital resource.

As part of the fight against climate change, energy management at the Port of Barcelona is a strategic priority. The APB is working to reduce its carbon footprint and that of the Port Community, with a firm commitment to renewable energy and electrification as key drivers of change.

Les obres portuàries

The construction works carried out at the Port of Barcelona are subject to rigorous environmental control. The Barcelona Port Authority has implemented external and independent monitoring to ensure that each project is executed in compliance with conditions for pollution prevention and minimization. This approach aims to reduce the environmental impact of the works, particularly regarding their effects on the coastline, particle emissions, and noise.

Waste generation

The Port of Barcelona assumes full responsibility for the comprehensive management of waste generated both within its own facilities and those of third parties. The Barcelona Port Authority oversees the collection and handling of waste from its buildings, facilities, common areas, and street cleaning. It also manages waste from the bars and restaurants located within the port, as well as waste from occasional cleaning operations.

The Port of Barcelona has implemented selective waste collection across its facilities, with dedicated containers for paper, glass, and packaging. This system also extends to waste management for concessionaire companies and vessels. The Barcelona Port Authority holds licenses for the reception of ship-generated waste, both liquid and solid, in compliance with the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL Convention).

Altres aspectes de rellevància

Ecology and Biodiversity 
The Port of Barcelona acknowledges its responsibility in protecting biodiversity, especially due to its proximity to the Integral Reserve of the Llobregat Delta. The Barcelona Port Authority has implemented measures to minimize the impact of its activities and construction works on ecosystems, with the aim of protecting bird populations and other species.
Chapter of the Environmental Statement

Management and Planning
The Port of Barcelona operates under a robust environmental management and planning system. Since 2001, the Barcelona Port Authority has maintained ISO 14001 certification, an international standard that demonstrates its commitment to environmental protection. Furthermore, since 2014, the port has been registered in the European Union’s EMAS system, which is voluntary and even more demanding. This commitment is further reinforced by adherence to the sector-specific PERS (Port Environmental Review System) standard. 
Chapter of the Environmental Statement

Stakeholders 
The Port of Barcelona understands that its commitment to sustainability is a shared responsibility that goes beyond its internal operations. For this reason, it integrates the expectations and demands of all stakeholders into its daily management. This approach is implemented through a Sectoral Sustainability Plan—an internationally unique initiative aimed at promoting and systematizing sustainable practices among all organizations that are part of the Port Community.
Chapter of the Environmental Statement

Environmental Compliance
The Barcelona Port Authority complies with current environmental legislation and is subject to international conventions for the protection of the sea, air, and soil. This proactive approach goes beyond minimum obligations, using control tools such as ordinances and technical specifications to ensure that all activities within the port are carried out sustainably.
Chapter of the Environmental Statement