THE NEW UNDERWATER VIEWPOINT AT THE PORT OF VIGO WILL OPEN TO THE PUBLIC TOMORROW, FRIDAY

The Port Authority of Vigo has taken a further 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 label developed specifically for the port sector, and it thoroughly evaluates the environmental performance and management of port institutions.

The renewal of the PERS label reinforces the integrated management model of the Port of Vigo. This framework combines internationally recognised standards such as ISO 14001 for environmental management — held continuously since 2007 — and the recent adoption of ISO 50001 for energy management, aimed at reducing and optimising energy consumption at its facilities. The entity also maintains the European EMAS III registration and produces its Environmental Statement and Sustainability Report on an annual basis.

Continuous monitoring and active prevention

The achievement of the PERS certification reflects an ongoing strategy of controlling environmental parameters in the estuary. In terms of water quality, the Port carries out regular analyses of physico-chemical and microbiological parameters in the water and sediments of its docks, complemented by direct seabed cleaning and regeneration work. On air quality and noise, the port network has continuous monitoring sensors measuring pollutants (NO₂, O₃, SO₂, NO, CO and particulates), together with up-to-date noise maps and acoustic propagation studies. To respond to contingencies on the water surface, it relies on a specialised service using a Pelican-type vessel — capable of removing floating solids and hydrocarbons — integrated into contingency plans coordinated with other administrations.

Circular economy and biodiversity restoration

The PERS standard also promotes the circular economy and the conservation of the natural environment. Through collaboration with the local fishing fleet, the Port Authority removed more than 58 tonnes of litter and unintentionally captured gear between 2023 and 2025, preventing it from returning to the sea.

In addition, the protection of marine ecosystems has become established as a key pillar through research projects such as HIPPO-REF, in partnership with IIM-CSIC, which has enabled the installation of artificial shelters that have already recorded the successful settlement of pairs of seahorses; the NaturPorts initiative (together with CSIC and the universities of Vigo and Oviedo), which has catalogued around 170 species colonising adapted port structures such as the innovative "Nautilus" and "Atlántida"; and, in terms of public outreach, a Bird Guide to the Port of Vigo will soon be joined by a new guide dedicated to the area's marine species.

With the renewal of the PERS label, the Port Authority of Vigo reaffirms its determination to keep moving towards an efficient, resilient port model that is fully compatible with the preservation of the marine environment, making it one of the few ports worldwide to hold so many environmental recognitions, as well as a global benchmark "Green Port".