Waste Management

Dredged Material Management

PBPL is responsible for maintaining the navigable depths of our shipping channels and berth pockets. This is achieved by dredging sediments each year that have accreted in these areas. 

Prior to our annual maintenance dredging program, we undertake a sediment sampling and analysis program to identify any contaminants within this sediment.

These results are used to guide our reclamation management strategy. As contaminants originate from the catchment area, the results are also communicated to Brisbane City Council (BCC) and the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (EHP), which have regulatory control over activities within the catchment.

The majority of dredged sediments are beneficially reused in the development of the Future Port Expansion (FPE) area.

Waste Reduction

We monitor the volume and content of waste generated at PBPL work sites to guide development of our waste management strategies and identify areas for improvement. Our head office has incorporated collection of three waste streams – general, recyclable and organic wastes – to encourage staff to appropriately separate and dispose of office wastes.

We have installed composting toilet facilities at the Port Gate (Whyte Island) boat ramp and our Reclamation compound.  These facilities have the ability to treat 100% of the water and sewerage into waste water suitable for irrigation.