The Port Authority of Valencia (APV) has officially joined the international initiative “Upcycling the Oceans,” which is spearheaded by the Ecoalf Foundation and Ecoembes. This project aims to combat marine debris by recovering waste from the sea and reintegrating it into the recycling process, with active involvement from the fishing industry. The agreement, which poses no financial burden on Valenciaport, emphasizes traceability and responsible management of marine waste and aims to foster public awareness and participation within the port community. The partnership is set for an initial four-year term, with the possibility of annual renewals for up to eight years.
By participating, the ports of Valencia, Sagunto, and Gandia will join a network of 72 Mediterranean ports committed to addressing marine pollution, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 14 on protecting underwater life. The initiative focuses on identifying various types of marine debris, particularly microplastics, which pose significant risks to marine ecosystems and human health. Valenciaport’s collaboration with Ecoalf Foundation and Ecoembes exemplifies the successful partnership between public and private entities in transforming marine waste into valuable resources through advanced recycling methods. As part of its outreach efforts, the project also emphasizes educating the fishing community and the general public about the impact of waste and the role society can play in reducing it.
In addition to this project, Valenciaport has a history of initiatives aimed at protecting the marine environment, including the European LIFE IP INTEMARES project, which focuses on underwater waste cleanup, and collaborations with the Valenciaport Foundation and Gandia Fishermen’s Guild for managing fishing waste. During a recent board meeting, the APV also approved new authorizations for port services in Valencia, Sagunto, and Gandia, aiming to enhance commercial activities. Moreover, an extension of the collaboration agreement with the Valencia City Council was approved, focusing on improving firefighter training and emergency preparedness at the Port of Valencia. This agreement reflects the APV’s ongoing commitment to ensuring safety and security within its operational environment.