• 3 min de lectura
• 3 min de lectura
The Port Authority of Vigo has taken a new step in its commitment to environmental excellence after obtaining the renewal of the PERS (Port Environmental Review System) certification. This international standard, promoted by the European EcoPorts network, is the only environmental seal developed specifically for the port sector and thoroughly evaluates the behavior and management of port institutions in terms of sustainability.
The revalidation of the PERS seal strengthens the integrated management model of the Port of Vigo. This framework combines internationally recognized standards such as ISO 14001 for environmental management —maintained continuously since 2007—, or the recent incorporation of ISO 50001 for energy management, aimed at reducing and optimizing energy consumption in facilities. Likewise, the entity maintains the European EMAS III registration and annually prepares its Environmental Statement and Sustainability Report.
Permanent Monitoring and Active Prevention
The achievement of PERS certification responds to a continuous strategy of controlling environmental parameters in the estuary. In the aquatic environment, the Port carries out periodic analyses of physical-chemical and microbiological parameters in the water and sediments of the docks, complemented by direct cleaning and regeneration of marine beds. At the atmospheric and acoustic level, the port network has continuous monitoring sensors for measuring pollutants (NO₂, O₃, SO₂, NO, CO, and particles), as well as updated noise maps and acoustic propagation studies. To address contingencies on the water surface, it has a specialized service using a Pelican-type vessel —capable of removing floating solids and hydrocarbons— and integrated into contingency plans coordinated with other administrations.
Circular Economy and Biodiversity Restoration
The PERS standard also includes promoting the circular economy and the conservation of the natural environment. Through collaboration with the local fishing fleet, the Port Authority has managed to remove more than 58 tons of unintentionally caught litter and gear between 2023 and 2025, thus preventing them from returning to the sea.
Furthermore, the protection of marine ecosystems has been consolidated as a key pillar through research projects such as HIPPO-REF, in alliance with IIM-CSIC, which have allowed for the installation of artificial shelters that have already registered the successful settlement of seahorse pairs; the NaturPorts initiative (together with CSIC and the universities of Vigo and Oviedo), which has allowed for the cataloging of approximately 170 species colonizing adapted port structures in innovative structures such as the "Nautilus" or "Atlantis"; while, in the field of citizen outreach, the publication of a Guide to Birds of the Port of Vigo will soon be joined by a new guide dedicated to marine species in the area.
With the renewal of the PERS seal, the Port Authority of Vigo ratifies its determination to continue advancing towards an efficient, resilient port model fully compatible with the preservation of the marine environment, being one of the few ports worldwide that has so many environmental recognitions, in addition to being a benchmark for "Green Port" globally.
