Portu'AIR: Combining Health, Sustainability and Economic Development
Air quality is a pressing concern in urban and industrial areas worldwide, and the Port of Cotonou in Benin is no exception. Recognizing the need for cleaner air and a healthier environment, Airscan Africa, represented by Ecobenin, has stepped in to make a significant impact.
Project Overview
The Portu’AIR project stems from the adoption of the MARPOL Convention and the EcoPorts certification awarded to the Autonomous Port of Cotonou. These initiatives aim to monitor and prevent pollution associated with port activities. To meet these objectives, Portu’AIR has implemented a permanent air quality monitoring system within the port and its surroundings.
Launched in March 2023, the Portu’AIR project draws on the expertise of Airscan and its local partner, ECO BENIN. It is part of the PASPort programme, a support initiative for the port sector backed by the Belgian Development Agency, Enabel.
The air quality monitoring network includes:
- 17 KUNAK Sensors: Continuously measure atmospheric pollutants such as particulate matter (PM1-2.5-10), carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone.
- 7 OWEN Gauges: Monthly measurement of elements including PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons) and heavy metals in atmospheric fallout.
Sources of Pollutants
Pollutants originate from various sources, both anthropogenic and natural. Specifically, the project aims to measure the impact of port activities, including:
- Internal traffic
- Petrochemical activities
- Passage of ships
- Cargo handling
Objectives and Outcomes
- Data Collection: Long-term measurements to validate observed trends and identify main pollutant sources.
- Action Plan: Develop measures to reduce pollutant concentrations in collaboration with stakeholders and the Port’s environment department. Potential actions include modernizing infrastructures with emission capture systems and promoting low-sulphur fuels.
- Regulatory Compliance: Use data to ensure compliance with updated national air quality standards based on recent scientific guidelines.
Collaborative Efforts
The success of the Portu’AIR project is bolstered by the unwavering support and collaboration of Enabel and Ecobenin. Together, Airscan and the Autonomous Port of Cotonou are making strides towards a healthier, more sustainable environment, fostering a harmonious cohabitation with the citizens of Cotonou.
Conclusion
These comprehensive measurements aim to inform and define effective environmental policies that will transform the Port of Cotonou into a model of sustainability among African ports.
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