International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) is investing in the development of the Luzon International Container Terminal (LICT) in Bauan, Batangas, in a bid to significantly reduce shipping’s environmental impact while boosting the Philippines’ capacity for global trade.
Slated for completion by 2028, the terminal will become the country’s second-largest container facility, only surpassed by Manila International Container Terminal (MICT), ICTSI’s flagship operation.
ICTSI’s new terminal, part of the company’s efforts to support the Philippines’ shift to renewable energy, is designed to accommodate the growing demand for efficient, eco-friendly marine solutions. Nathan Clarke, ICTSI’s vice president and head of global engineering, described the project as a critical step toward a greener future.
“We’re proud to drive positive change at home by developing a world-class port capable of handling the largest container vessels,” Clarke said. “This boosts our capacity and helps lead the shift toward a more sustainable shipping industry. Our new Bauan terminal’s ability to accommodate large ships sets it apart and positions us as a leader in efficient and eco-conscious trade.”
Reducing Environmental Impact Through Mega Ships
A significant feature of the LICT terminal is its ability to handle mega ships, vessels that are crucial to minimizing environmental damage. By carrying more cargo in fewer trips, mega ships reduce fuel consumption, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and alleviate congestion along major shipping routes.
“At the end of the day, if a terminal is unable to handle larger vessels, it’s also unable to fully embrace the new technologies leading to a sustainable future,” Clarke added. Mega ships contribute to cleaner shipping by adopting green technologies, including energy-efficient engines, streamlined hull designs, and the use of cleaner fuels like liquefied natural gas (LNG). These advancements help lower emissions and ensure compliance with international regulations such as the IMO 2020, which restricts sulfur content in marine fuels.
Beyond cutting fuel consumption, mega ships help preserve marine biodiversity by reducing the number of vessels passing through environmentally sensitive areas. They also incorporate ballast water management systems to prevent the spread of invasive species.
ICTSI’s Environmental Commitment
ICTSI’s sustainability initiatives form the foundation for the LICT project. The company’s 36-year operation of the MICT has seen the successful implementation of advanced waste and water management systems, circular economy practices, and decarbonization efforts. The same environmentally responsible principles will be applied to LICT, with design and engineering studies already underway and construction expected to begin in 2025.
ICTSI has committed to adhering to strict environmental guidelines throughout the project to minimize disruption to the local ecosystem. These practices align with the company’s broader goal of supporting the Philippines’ renewable energy transition, particularly in Southern Luzon.
A Model for Future Terminals
Once operational, LICT will not only reinforce the Philippines’ position in the global maritime trade but also serve as a model for sustainable shipping practices. ICTSI’s focus on innovation and environmental responsibility highlights how progress and environmental protection can coexist.
As the global shipping industry continues to grapple with its environmental footprint, terminals like LICT offer a solution. With the ability to accommodate larger, more efficient vessels and the integration of eco-friendly technologies, ICTSI’s new terminal is poised to set a benchmark for the future of shipping.
