Heraklion Port Authority signs waste management contract with HEC to advance green port strategy

The official contract with HEC (Hellenic Environmental Center) for the provision of specialized services for the collection, transportation and final treatment of liquid waste from vessels and port facilities was signed at the headquarters of the Heraklion Port Authority.

Through this agreement, the Heraklion Port Authority reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the principles of sustainable development and green port operations, investing in services that enhance environmental safety, compliance with international standards and the upgrading of services provided to the maritime community.

According to the Port Authority, the partnership will strengthen the environmental protection framework of the Port of Heraklion, upgrade its infrastructure and ensure full alignment with national and European regulations aimed at preventing marine pollution.

Leveraging cutting-edge expertise and a specialized fleet, HEC guarantees the safe removal of oily residues and other liquid waste streams. This process minimizes the environmental footprint of commercial and passenger vessels during their stay at anchorage.

The proper collection, transportation and treatment of liquid waste forms part of the modern circular economy model, ensuring effective protection of the marine ecosystem and the coastlines of Crete, while preserving the high quality of the port’s waters. The collected waste is not discarded but is instead directed to specialized treatment facilities for recycling and the recovery of raw materials.

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According to the Port Authority, this practice ensures:

• The maintenance of excellent water quality within the port basin.
• The protection of biodiversity along Crete’s coastline.
• The strengthening of the Authority’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance indicators, making it more attractive to international shipping companies.

In a statement, Heraklion Port Authority Chief Executive Officer Minas Papadakis stressed that the signing of the agreement with HEC represents a tangible commitment to accelerating the organization’s green transition, emphasizing that the protection of the marine environment is a strategic priority rather than merely a regulatory obligation.

“As part of our broader plan to develop a modern, safe and environmentally responsible port, the signing of this contract for liquid waste management marks an important milestone for the Heraklion Port Authority.

Protecting the marine environment is not only a statutory obligation but also a strategic choice.

Through our partnership with HEC, we are ensuring the delivery of high-quality services with full respect for the environment, public health and the needs of the maritime community.

We will continue to invest in initiatives and sustainable practices that reduce the port’s environmental footprint and establish Heraklion as a benchmark for green port management in the Eastern Mediterranean, while creating added value for the local community, the economy and the island’s natural heritage.”