South Asia Gateway Terminals (Pvt) Ltd (SAGT), Sri Lanka’s first Public Private Partnershipemerged as thed winner in the “Other” category at the Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards 2024 hosted by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.
Since launching its sustainability strategy in 2018, SAGT has been at the forefront of driving sustainable operations both within its terminal and the Port of Colombo. SAGT was the first and, to date, remains the only single-operator terminal in the South Asia region to publish an independently accredited annual sustainability report that charts the company’s progressive journey in sustainable terminal operations.
In pursuit of achieving net zero ahead of the 2050 IMO mandated target, SAGT continues to leverage energy-efficient technology and innovation to drive down its carbon emissions. Following the successful hybrid conversion of its rubber-tyred gantry cranes (RTGs), SAGT has achieved over 50% diesel savings per machine. Over the past five years (2019/20-2023/24) SAGT has reduced the greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity of its operations by 28%. Accelerating progress
Towards decarbonization, SAGT continues to explore electrification and renewable energy to power relevant segments across all of its operations. Employees are at the heart of SAGT’s business success. SAGT’s commitment continues to invest in the well-being and development of its employees. In 2024 SAGT redoubled its efforts to create a more diverse and equitable working environment and became the first port sector organization in Sri Lanka to introduce a paternity leave policy.
Amidst the prevailing economic backdrop in the country, SAGT continues to work towards the upliftment of its surrounding communities. During the period 2023/24, SAGT partially funded the restarting of the stalled Thriposha production by donating milk powder (a primary ingredient) to the value of USD 500,000.00, facilitating the production of 3 million 750g packs reaching 1.5 million beneficiaries. Thriposha is the Government of Sri Lanka’s fortified nutritional program benefitting malnourished children (between 6 months and 5 years) and pregnant and lactating mothers.
Commenting on the award, Udara Cumaratunga, Deputy General Manager—Commercial and Marketing, stated, “SAGT is committed to its sustainability aspirations that permeate through all aspects of our operations, encompassing social, environmental and governance responsibilities. We are grateful to the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and the judging panel for recognizing our efforts in pioneering sustainable best practices in the Port of Colombo and the region”.
South Asia Gateway Terminals (SAGT), Sri Lanka’s first public-private partnership container terminal, commenced operations in 1999 with a vision to be the most trusted gateway in the Indian Ocean. Built on a foundation of teamwork, safety, trust and integrity, customer centricity, and excellence, SAGT presents the international trading community with a competitive best-in-class service.
A pioneer in sustainable terminal operations, SAGT continues to steer the course for a sustainable future. Promoting “ease of doing business” through digitalization and digitization is an integral part of SAGT’s DNA. SAGT is a recipient of multiple independent, globally recognized “best practice” awards since inception.
SAGT is a Board of Investment flagship company whose shareholders include John Keells Holdings, Maersk/APM Terminals, SLPA and Evergreen Marine Corporation.
