Dry Bulk: when grain becomes a problem
Visit at the Port of Elbląg during PortShaz project meet up. © RFTB
The first quarter of 2025 has been a period of intensive planning for the upcoming months of the Dry Bulk project. Our initial focus was conducting research to identify bulk terminals within the Baltic Sea basin specializing in the handling of agricultural products such as grains and animal feed.
Following this, we visited two major Polish ports, Gdańsk and Gdynia, where we engaged in insightful discussions with environmental specialists, trying to understand in what kind on circumstances grain can become a eutrophying good. These visits also included tours of grain terminals, providing us with a deeper understanding of the various stages of cargo handling and showcasing cutting-edge technologies designed to minimize environmental impact. Additionally, we explored potential collaboration opportunities with both port and terminal representatives, laying the groundwork for future partnerships. In the coming weeks, we will focus on developing the details of these collaborations. Looking ahead, additional visits to other terminals are planned for April.
PortShaz – visit in Elbląg and stakeholder dialogue
In March, our project manager, Małgorzata Żochowska, participated in a meeting with the INCONE60 Green project team. This gathering provided an excellent opportunity to learn from the Port of Vordingborg case study and discuss future development plans for the Port of Elbląg, the lead partner of the PortShaz project. The insights gained will be instrumental in supporting Baltic ports in their green transition and addressing dry bulk cargo leakage challenges.
In PortShaz, currently, one of our primary focuses is engaging in stakeholder dialogue with local governments and NGOs. These discussions aim to better understand the environmental and societal impacts of dry bulk cargo leakage and dusting. Recent meetings with the environmental specialists from Gdańsk and Gdynia city halls, as well as representatives of the Armag Foundation, have provided valuable perspectives that will shape our work on sustainable solutions.
Looking ahead, we are eagerly preparing for the next work package meeting in May, which will take place in Klaipeda, Lithuania. During this session, we will review our progress on managing environmental hazards in port operations and refine recommendations for reducing cargo leakage while enhancing environmental protection. Stay tuned for the updates!
Małgorzata on one of her first port visits as business manager for the Dry Bulk project. © RFTB
Welcome Małgorzata Żochowska, our new Business Manager
In February 2025, Małgorzata Żochowska joined the Race For The Baltic, bringing her passion for the Baltic Sea and expertise to our foundation. Her connection to the Baltic dates back to her childhood, where she spent every summer vacation by its shores. This lifelong bond inspired her academic journey in Gdańsk, where she graduated from both the University of Gdańsk and the Gdańsk University of Technology. Currently, Małgorzata is pursuing postgraduate studies in agriculture at Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW).
At Race For The Baltic, Małgorzata contributes to combating eutrophication as the manager of the Dry Bulk project and EU-funded PortShaz initiative. Her work leverages six years of experience collaborating with leading companies in Poland, ensuring that her knowledge and skills contribute effectively to our mission of protecting the Baltic Sea.