Environmentally friendly handling techniques of fertilisers in ports : final report / by Dipl.-Kfm. Nils Heine M.Sc. (Ramboll Germany GmbH, Rostock) ; on behalf of the Federal Environment Agency ; editorial: Subject area II 2.3 Protection of the Seas and Polar Regions - Julian Mönnich

Abstract

The study examines fertiliser loading in German ports and its potential impact on the environment. In doing so, the best practices for loss-reducing handling of unpackaged fertiliser are identified. Fertilisers are mainly exported via the ports in Hamburg, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Schleswig-Holstein. Specialised terminals use closed handling systems to minimise the loss of fertiliser. A trial showed a loss rate of 85 g per 100 t, which is many times lower than previously assumed. Practicable approaches to handling fertilisers in the port include covering the space between the ship and the quay wall and regular cleaning of the handling areas. In addition, processes such as unloading the fertiliser from the ship and storing it in the port are also described and possible hazards for the environment are explained.