Tom Barlow-BrownThe Port of Rotterdam Authority is implementing a new sustainability-focused levy on inland port dues, set to take effect on 1 January 2025.
This change introduces a 5% increase in dues specifically for motorised vessels, with funds allocated to support sustainability initiatives within the inland shipping sector.
‘The port aims to foster sustainability without compromising its competitive edge,’ said Matthijs van Doorn, Commercial Director at the Port of Rotterdam Authority. ‘These tariff changes not only reflect our climate ambitions but also provide inland shipping operators with tangible rewards for transparency and efficiency.’
The funds generated from the 5% sustainability levy will be earmarked exclusively for projects that advance cleaner shipping practices. However, vessel operators who voluntarily disclose their emission data via the Green Award system are eligible for a 5% discount on their dues, effectively offsetting the increase. This approach aims to both incentivise data sharing and supports more accurate emissions tracking
The Green Award system, which evaluates vessels on environmental performance, grants discounts based on certification levels. Inland vessels with bronze or silver certifications can secure a 15% reduction in dues, those with gold certifications receive a 30% discount, and those with Platinum certifications are exempt from port dues entirely. The Port of Rotterdam sees these financial incentives as vital to driving environmental progress within the shipping industry.
Inland shipping transparency will also benefit from a new policy in which barge operators sharing real-time location data with the port through tracking devices can qualify for an additional 5% discount on dues. This measure is designed to improve safety and offer insights into berth availability, contributing to more efficient port operations.
This tariff revision marks the latest step in Rotterdam’s broader sustainability initiatives, following a three-year tariff agreement finalised in 2021, which included inflation-adjusted rates and discounts for sustainable practices. As Victor van der Chijs, chair of Deltalinqs, remarked during the 2021 announcement, ‘Using port dues to invest in an efficient and sustainable port is essential for maintaining our competitiveness.’
Image: Shutterstock
Rhys Berry
