The ASEAN-United States (US) workshop on developing sustainable ports through policy, planning, partnership and innovation was held in the capital yesterday, where it centred on advancing sustainability in the port and maritime sectors, specifically decarbonisation.
The event, organised by the US Department of Transportation under the US-ASEAN Transportation Dialogue Partnership, was part of the 47th ASEAN Maritime Transport Working Group (MTWG) Meeting.
Assistant Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Brunei Darussalam and Chair of the MTWG Salmaya Rahayu binti Salleh and US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Caryn R McClelland were present at the opening. Salmaya Rahayu highlighted that while maritime transport is efficient and sustainable, it contributes three per cent of global emissions, which could rise by 130 per cent by 2050. She added that ports can lead sustainability efforts through environmental, social, governance and economic initiatives.
The US ambassador meanwhile stressed that decarbonisation must go beyond emissions reduction, incorporating broader sustainability practices.
She also encouraged ASEAN to adopt the practices, noting the important role Brunei and ASEAN play in the global effort. She reaffirmed the US’ commitment to supporting the initiatives.
The workshop was joined by delegates from ASEAN member states, the ASEAN Secretariat and Timor-Leste. – James Kon
