Mombasa Port’s Dust Suppression Initiative – A Model for Environmental Management

By Andrew Mwangura

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

The Kenya Ports Authority’s installation of two mist blower fogging units at the Port of Mombasa represents a significant stride toward sustainable maritime operations in East Africa.

This pilot project, targeting dust emissions from bulk cargo operations at Berths 9 and 10, demonstrates how regional ports can balance economic imperatives with environmental responsibility.

Mist blower fogging units are sophisticated dust suppression systems that generate fine water droplets to capture and settle airborne particles during cargo handling operations.

These systems work by creating a controlled mist that binds with dust particles, causing them to become heavier and fall to the ground rather than dispersing into the atmosphere.

The technology is particularly effective for handling materials like clinker, coal, and gypsum, which generate significant amounts of fine particulate matter during loading and unloading operations.

The importance of these units extends far beyond immediate dust control. Port environments are notorious for generating substantial amounts of particulate matter that can travel considerable distances, affecting not only port workers but entire coastal communities.

The health implications are severe, with prolonged exposure to fine dust particles linked to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and reduced life expectancy.

Port workers who spend eight to ten hours daily in these environments, effective dust suppression becomes a matter of occupational safety and long-term health preservation.

The environmental benefits are equally compelling. Dust emissions contaminate surrounding water bodies, affecting marine ecosystems and fishing communities that depend on clean coastal waters.

Airborne particles also damage vegetation, reduce air quality in urban areas, and contribute to the degradation of infrastructure through corrosive deposits.

By implementing this technology, KPA is addressing multiple environmental challenges simultaneously while protecting the economic interests of communities that rely on healthy coastal ecosystems.

Global examples demonstrate the transformative potential of such initiatives. The Port of Rotterdam, Europe’s largest port, has implemented comprehensive dust suppression systems that have reduced particulate emissions by over 60% since 2010.

Their integrated approach combines mist blowing technology with covered storage facilities and real-time air quality monitoring, creating a model that other ports worldwide have adopted.

The success of Rotterdam’s program has not only improved environmental conditions but also enhanced the port’s reputation, attracting environmentally conscious shipping companies and cargo owners.

From the Global South, the Port of Santos in Brazil offers an inspiring example of environmental leadership in developing economies.

Facing similar challenges with bulk cargo dust emissions, Santos invested in advanced mist suppression systems in 2018. The results have been remarkable, with air quality improvements benefiting over 400,000 residents in surrounding communities.

More importantly, Santos demonstrated that environmental investments need not compromise economic competitiveness.

The port has experienced increased cargo volumes from companies prioritizing sustainable supply chains, proving that environmental stewardship can drive economic growth.

Singapore’s port, representing OECD standards in Asia, has pioneered integrated dust management systems that combine fogging units with automated monitoring and predictive maintenance.

Their approach includes real-time air quality sensors that trigger mist systems when dust levels exceed predetermined thresholds, optimizing water usage while maintaining effective suppression.

This smart technology approach has reduced operational costs by 30% while achieving superior environmental outcomes.

KPA’s initiative aligns with global trends toward sustainable port operations and positions Mombasa favorably in international maritime markets.

As shipping companies face increasing pressure to reduce their environmental footprint, ports that demonstrate environmental leadership gain competitive advantages.

The European Union’s forthcoming carbon border adjustments will likely extend to transportation and logistics, making environmental compliance not just ethically important but economically essential.

The pilot nature of this project reflects prudent management, allowing KPA to assess performance and optimize operations before broader implementation.

This measured approach ensures that lessons learned at Berths 9 and 10 can inform future installations, maximizing the effectiveness of subsequent investments.

General Manager Mathew Amuti’s emphasis on global best practices signals KPA’s commitment to international standards, potentially facilitating partnerships with leading global ports and access to advanced technologies.

This strategic positioning could attract international investment and technical expertise, accelerating Kenya’s maritime sector development.

The success of this initiative will depend on comprehensive monitoring, regular maintenance, and continuous improvement based on performance data.

KPA should consider establishing partnerships with academic institutions to study the long-term impacts and optimize system performance. Additionally, engaging local communities in monitoring and reporting will build public support and ensure transparency.

Mombasa’s dust suppression initiative represents more than environmental compliance; it embodies a vision of sustainable development that protects public health while maintaining economic competitiveness.

As other regional ports observe KPA’s progress, this project could catalyze broader environmental improvements across East Africa’s maritime infrastructure, creating lasting benefits for millions of people who depend on healthy coastal environments and efficient port operations.

The writer is a policy analyst specializing in maritime governance and blue economy development.