At the Port of Belledune, environmental responsibility is integral to every aspect of our operations. As a major Canadian gateway, we are committed to sustainable development, marine protection, and proactive ecosystem management. By combining rigorous international management standards, strategic certifications, and cutting-edge marine monitoring technology, we ensure our growth respects both local communities and the natural environment.
The Belledune Port Authority has environmental management systems in place that use the International Standards Organization (ISO) 14000 as a model to ensure the greatest possible protection of the environment.
By developing effective management systems based on sound principles and measures, the Port of Belledune has been able to successfully avoid and prevent harm from befalling the environment.
The port conforms to all changes in any applicable rules and regulations and takes its role in safeguarding the environment seriously at all times.
The port also conforms to International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidelines, including MARPOL and the IMDG Code. Key environmental priorities—such as oily waste reception, garbage management, sewage treatment, and the handling of chemicals and hazardous materials—strictly adhere to these international guidelines wherever applicable.
Furthermore, the port and its clients operate under full compliance with federal environmental legislation, including:
Environmental Assessments involving the Belledune Port Authority can be accessed via the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada Registry.
Green Marine’s environmental certification program offers a roadmap for port authorities, terminal operators, and shipping lines to voluntarily surpass regulatory compliance and continually improve their environmental performance. The comprehensive program addresses key environmental issues using 13 performance indicators that include reducing air emissions, minimizing community impacts, and demonstrating environmental leadership.
The Port of Belledune has been Green Marine certified since 2018.
The Port of Belledune partners with SeafarerAI on the Port Watch project. This initiative deploys artificial intelligence and multi-sensor technology for real-time underwater and surface monitoring, aiming to reduce underwater noise, protect marine life, and boost port security.
Project Goals and Technology:
The BPA takes its responsibility to the our marine environment very seriously. As such, we share with vessels and the public a guide on reporting marine mammal sightings using new tools that help researchers better understand the impacts of human activities on these species.
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