Storage tanks could save 3m litres of water at Antwerp

PSA Antwerp (PSAA), MSC PSA European Terminal (MPET) and Antwerp Terminal Services (ATS) will invest €300,000 in the construction of three large tanks with a combined capacity of 240,000 litres to collect and store rainwater at the MPET, Europa and Noordzee terminals.

Rainwater only cleaning

Francis De Ruytter, general manager of ATS, said: “Currently, about 3 million litres of potable water are required every year to clean and maintain all the port equipment – mainly straddle carriers.

“When the new storage tanks are completed, we expect to be able to perform all cleanings using only collected rainwater.

“With this green project, our objective is to conserve a large amount of potable water, at the same time recycle rainwater and put in to good use.”

Purification treatment

Recycled water which has been used for the washing of equipment will sent away for purification, before being discharged back into the environment as clean water.

Construction of the storage tanks is expected to be completed in the first half of 2018.

Mr De Ruytter added that the initiative is part of its continuing commitment towards environmental sustainability and a greener workplace.