Port of Rotterdam, Sea Ranger partner for green projects

The Port of Rotterdam Authority and the Sea Ranger Service have formalised a three-year collaboration aimed at providing young people with maritime work experience while supporting sustainability initiatives in the port.

Port of Rotterdam, Sea Ranger partner for green projects

The agreement was signed by Harbour Master René de Vries and Wietse van der Werf, founder and CEO of the Sea Ranger Service.

The first project under the partnership involves mapping plastic waste in the port.

The Sea Ranger Service trains and employs young people aged 18 to 29 from coastal areas, offering offshore services to governments focused on ocean conservation.

Since its launch in 2016, over 200 individuals have taken part in the programme, with around half going on to maritime careers.

Harbour Master René de Vries commented: “The mission and message of the Sea Ranger Service are completely aligned with the purpose of the Port of Rotterdam Authority: Connecting the world. Building tomorrow’s sustainable port.

“In addition, it’s fantastic to help young people learn more about working in the port of Rotterdam and in nautical services.”

Wietse van der Werf added: “This unique collaboration with the Port of Rotterdam Authority offers young people the opportunity to discover the Port of Rotterdam up close and to take their first steps towards a maritime career.

“As full-time Sea Rangers, they will also do work that will contribute towards a more sustainable port. Gaining work experience while also creating an impact on the future: that’s a real win-win.”

Last month, the Port of Rotterdam Authority, in collaboration with the Royal Netherlands Navy Hydrographic Service, implemented a system to improve the accuracy and consistency of terminal and berth location data.