Sustainable Development

The MPA’s initiatives to improve air and water quality at the Port of Montreal continue, with efforts focused on its operations, energy consumption in its buildings, power supply solutions, and liquefied natural gas (LNG). At the same time, installing hydrodynamic separators is improving the treatment of rainwater, aiming in better quality discharges into the St. Lawrence River.

GHG footprint

The MPA had a positive GHG footprint in 2024, with a total of 3,030 tonnes of Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions, related mainly to rail operations, MPA land vehicles and the energy consumption of MPA buildings. This figure shows a 13% decrease compared to 2023, mainly attributable to more efficient operations throughout Port territory, a 37% decrease compared to the reference year 2007 in line with both the target 55% reduction by 2030, as well as the 45% reduction in intensity per tonne handled compared to 2007.

Turning to dockside electricity and LNG bunkering, which are part of Scope 3 emissions, the MPA enables vessels to reduce their dependence on traditional fuels by making it easier to adopt lower-carbon alternatives. 

In 2024, a total of 30 vessel connections were made to one of the 43 shore power systems available on Port of Montreal docks. Of this number, 18 were made by wintering vessels and 12 by cruise ships, reducing GHG emissions by approximately 2,000 tonnes.

In addition, 48 new LNG bunkering operations for vessels took place on Port territory. Since this system was implemented in 2017, more than 200 LNG bunkering operations have been carried out, leading to significant reductions in air emissions—SOx (99% reduction) and fine particles (90% reduction), as well as a substantial reduction in NOx (70%)—compared to the use of conventional marine fuels.

Water quality 

A new hydrodynamic separator, used as a rainwater treatment system, was installed on Port territory in 2024. The Port of Montreal now has 42 treatment units for runoff water before it is discharged into the St. Lawrence River.

In its approach to achieve a more sustainable future, the MPA stepped up its efforts in energy transition by implementing innovative solutions to reduce the carbon footprint of its port operations and expedite shipping and port industry decarbonization.

Juno Marie

A new shore power system was installed in Section 73 of the Port of Montreal specifically for the Juno Marie, owned by Shell Canada. This small oil tanker, on duty all year long, supplies fuel to any vessel calling at our terminals. Now it can stay connected to electricity when it is not bunkering other vessels. This initiative furthers the MPA's objective to install more electrical systems for vessels and expedite the energy transition.

Decarbonizing the St. Lawrence

As part of Réseau Québec Maritime’s research program aimed at mitigating the impacts of commercial navigation on ecosystems (PLAINE) led by the University of Montreal, the port authorities of Montreal, Quebec City and Trois-Rivières created a practical roadmap to fully decarbonize the St. Lawrence system by 2050. This roadmap identifies the key measures to be implemented to achieve carbon neutrality in the marine and port industry, including measuring and monitoring the energy consumption of port facilities, strengthening the regulatory framework, adopting energy-efficient technologies and alternative fuels, and optimizing port operations. 

The MPA also contributed to the development of the Quebec Maritime Industry Decarbonization Plan, which stems from the Working Group on the Decarbonization of Quebec’s Maritime Industry (MTMD, 2024). This initiative supports efforts to meet the targets set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

New solution at the Grand Quay 

By adopting renewable natural gas as a new energy supply solution at the Port of Montreal's Grand Quay, the building’s energy supply is now 100% renewable energy, saving 40 tonnes of GHG emissions over the course of the year. 

Partnership with SOFIAC

To improve energy efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint, the MPA signed a strategic partnership with the Société de financement et d’accompagnement en performance énergétique (SOFIAC), an investment fund specializing in decarbonization, for a comprehensive energy efficiency project that has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the buildings under its operational responsibility by more than 60%.

As part of its commitment to protect biodiversity, the MPA implemented practical measures to preserve and foster local ecosystems. The MPA strengthens the urban canopy, beautifies public spaces and limits the impact of invasive species on natural habitats.

Planting trees

The MPA continued its ambitious five-year project to plant 3,000 trees in partnership with Soverdi, and this year planted 768 trees around port facilities in Montreal and Contrecœur. On Port territory in Greater Montreal, 465 trees were planted in Parc Hôtel-de-Ville in Montreal’s east end and on the Tailhandier flats, while 303 trees were integrated into the community near such key locations as the Grace Dart Extended Care Centre, the CAP Saint-Barnabé community centre, Louise-Trichet school and Hôtel-Dieu de Sorel hospital. This initiative helps to improve the urban canopy, beautify public spaces and reduce heat islands.

Controlling invasive species

The MPA funded a project to control invasive species, including European and alder buckthorn, on approximately five hectares of the Tailhandier flats. Supported by the St. Lawrence Action Fund and carried out by the Jacques-Cartier ZIP, the project’s aim is to preserve local ecosystems threatened by these invasive shrubs. In 2024, initial interventions included manually uprooting young plants and cutting adult shrubs, then applying a bioherbicide. The next phase involved planting 450 native trees to promote biodiversity. Results show a substantial reduction in infested colonies, with ongoing measures planned to strengthen vegetation and prevent reinfestation. 

By fostering cooperation, dialogue and transparency, the MPA endeavours to support local socioeconomic development, youth training and environmental protection. Through its initiatives, transparent communication and strategic partnerships, the Port pledges to promote solidarity and build a harmonious, sustainable future.

Community involvement

Altogether 54 projects were supported in 2024 under the MPA's community involvement policy, which targets the following three sectors: social and economic development in Montreal, the Contrecœur region and the First Nations (for example, the Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve community kitchen, Chic Resto Pop and the Sentier urbain vegetable garden); support for youth training and development (Jeunes marins urbains and EcoMaris sail training program); and the fight against climate change (YMCA – C-Vert program). Also of note is the signing of a new agreement with an organization in the Mohawk community and a new partnership with the Canadian Marine Careers Foundation (CMCF), which has introduced the Port to hundreds of young people across Canada. 

In 2024, MPA employees actively participated in various community initiatives, including shoreline cleanup activities, sporting events to raise funds for MS Canada, and the Desgagnés Kayak Challenge in support of the Young Musicians of the World organization. They also helped distribute Christmas hampers and collect for the Guignolée de Contrecœur food drive, supporting the local community during the holiday season.

An attentive port

The MPA continued to encourage transparency and cooperation by engaging in consultation and information processes with its stakeholders. This dialogue took the form of: 

• Meetings of the Good Neighbourhood Committee and with various citizen groups to discuss noise reduction projects around the terminals and railways, and how to make the bike path along port facilities safer
• Consultation committees that brought together sectors adjacent to port facilities
• Communication tools to consistently and regularly share information, including a monthly newsletter (8,000+ subscribers), 26 press releases and 750+ posts on our social media (70,000+ subscribers)

The MPA furthered its efforts to improve the city-port interface through projects that promote the Port's openness to the community. These initiatives help maximize the connections between the city and its port. 

Bickerdike Promenade development

The MPA inaugurated the new Bickerdike Promenade, a $2.3 million urban development bordering port facilities in the Cité du Havre sector. This project offers citizens a waterfront space for observation and relaxation that features information panels on the Port of Montreal’s history and activities and a secure view of port facilities and their immediate surroundings.

Parking lot project west of MPA offices at 3400 Notre-Dame Street East

With a $6.7 million budget, the project to renovate the existing parking lot included several key improvements: installing a runoff water retention system for better environmental management, adding a hydrodynamic separator, creating an outdoor recreation space for employees, as well as landscaping an embankment, planting trees and shrubs and ornamental fencing to enhance the interface with Notre-Dame Street.

The MPA continued to actively promote harmonious cohabitation between its port activities and surrounding communities by adopting an innovative and eco-responsible approach to balance operational performance and local quality of life.

Noise reduction from passing trains

Specific measures were put in place to reduce the noise generated by trains passing through Old Montreal, such as installing next-generation rail lubricators. These measures mitigate noise spikes and improve acoustic comfort for local and shoreline residents, while ensuring the continuity of rail operations in the sector.

 Eco-friendly lighting at Bickerdike Terminal

As part of its commitment to reduce the visual impact on neighbouring communities, the MPA recently completed a major lighting optimization project at Bickerdike Terminal. High-pressure sodium lights were replaced with Dark Sky-certified LED (light-emitting diode) models, which are more energy efficient and are configured to be less intrusive in terms of light pollution. A new smart control system was also installed, making it possible to select different lighting zones and adjust their intensity according to operational needs. This modernization helps provide uniform lighting throughout the terminal while limiting light pollution for the neighbourhood.

To raise awareness of port activities among the public and stakeholders, every year the Port of Montreal opens its doors to thousands of visitors, deepening its connection with the community and broadening its horizons.

Port Day

A major free event at the Grand Quay celebrating the marine industry, Port Day attracted 10,000+ people by providing a unique immersion in the port world. Geared towards adults and children alike, the day was an opportunity to discover port activities and professions through visits to vessels and locomotives, a nautical exhibition area developed with partners from the logistics and shipping ecosystem, and guided tours of port facilities.

Port in the City

The Port in the City container visited six events in Montreal and Verchères during the summer, attracting a total of 4,500 participants. The program included a mobile information booth, free bus tours of the Port of Montreal and a contest with a chance to win a cruise. This event’s goal is to introduce citizens to port activities and open our facilities to the public.

Hospitality and tours

All year long, the MPA welcomes local and international commercial and government delegations, as well as associations and academic groups. During 2024, a total of 190 events were organized, making it possible to welcome and give tours of port facilities to 2,000+ participants.

The Contrecœur project epitomizes the MPA's commitment to sustainable and responsible development. By incorporating strict environmental monitoring and constant dialogue with local communities, government agencies and First Nations, this project is shaping up to be a model of environmental management and regional cooperation for the Port's activities.

Documentation and environmental monitoring

In compliance with project requirements related to the declaration of decision issued by the federal government, in 2024 the MPA began releasing detailed documents on environmental measures, including various monitoring programs and reports as well as compensation plans. Other documents will continue to be released in 2025 as per project requirements. 

Extensive consultations were held with various government bodies, local authorities and First Nations representatives. These exchanges were set up to develop suitable mitigation measures, specifically for the seagrass compensation plan, while preparing effective communication strategies to keep all stakeholders informed of the project's activities. 

Offsetting measures

As part of its obligations to offset the loss of forest habitats in connection with developing the new container terminal, in June the MPA began the first phase of its ambitious reforestation plan. In partnership with Aménagements Natur'Eau-Lac Inc., the goal is to plant 40,000 plants over approximately 20 hectares. Some 23 000 plants were planted. This initiative aims to offset the impact of the project on these habitats while promoting local biodiversity and environmental connectivity.

This year, the MPA also focused on developing a wetland project for its territory in Contrecœur. This initiative, which calls for a series of wetlands covering an area of 24.7 hectares, is subject to consultation with the First Nations affected by the project, as well as various government agencies. 

Civic engagement and local development

The Contrecœur project also stands out for its commitment to the community. Open houses for members of the public, held in Contrecœur and Verchères, provided an opportunity to inform and interact with about 200 residents on project progress, anticipated impacts and planned mitigation measures. What is more, the MPA continues its actions to support local development and environmental awareness, by making donations, sponsoring initiatives and organizing educational workshops for primary school pupils in Contrecœur, forging closer ties between the project and the surrounding community.

The MPA is committed to including sustainable materials in its worksites and ensuring that its projects are eco-responsibly managed. During 2024, for example, the new Pie-IX railway bridge project incorporated innovative measures to reduce its environmental impact. A low-decibel vibratory pile driver was used to limit noise during construction. In addition, 10% micronized glass powder was mixed into the concrete, resulting in less cement being used. Furthermore, close to 25% of the extracted soil (approximately 61,000 tonnes) was sent to treatment and recovery sites, and approximately 750 tonnes of materials were sent to a recycling centre specializing in asphalt and concrete.

Among the strategic international partnerships formed by the Port of Montreal, the action plan signed in 2024 with the Vietnam Maritime Administration (Vinamarine) initiates joint work on key areas for building a sustainable future. This action plan focuses on strategic issues such as the energy transition, developing green corridors and digital innovation in the marine sector.