The Port of Coos Bay is committed to being a responsible environmental steward through sustainable economic development of the region. Our future economic growth is integrated with using environmentally safe methods and practices. 

Environmental Values

We recognize that our activities have both direct and indirect effects on the environment, and Port staff is committed to reducing our impact while educating and empowering our employees to make more environmentally responsible choices. 

Port staff will make every effort to adhere to the laws and regulations pertaining to our operations and the community. Staff's aim is to exceed required levels of compliance wherever feasible. Port staff has begun to implement this strategy by making more environmentally-preferable purchasing choices and developing company-wide recycling programs. As such, staff has chosen to make environmental responsibility a part of our operating philosophy. 

Environmental Goals and Policy

The Port's goals include managing operations and facilities in an environmentally responsible manner. The Board adopted green policies in 2009. The Port also maintains "clean marina" and "clean shipyard" certifications from the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) and implements the OSMB's best management practices at the Charleston Marina and boatyard. In addition to the existing environmental policies, the following goals, policies, and strategies are set in the Port's Strategic Business Plan to assist the Port in maintaining its commitment to sound environmental stewardship. 

Goal: Continue to operate Port facilities consistent with established best management practices, including Clean Marina and Clean Boatyard programs. 

Policy 1: Review and, as necessary, update green policies and best management practices annually to ensure compliance with current environmental regulations and balance economic development opportunities with regional sustainability. 

• Work with local representatives to address environmental concerns and engage community input as needed for special projects. 
• Share resources, funds, and opportunities with local and regional partners as appropriate to achieve common environmental goals and projects. 

Policy 2: Maintain clean marina and clean boatyard certifications through OSMB.

Environmental Priorities

Waste Management

The Port practices waste prevention and reduction whenever possible through taking action to reduce, recycle and re-purpose material used in daily operations of the Port. In addition, the Port works to identify areas where wasteful materials can be reduced. 

Water Conservation

The Port promotes the use of water and energy efficiently through conserving water in areas of operation and purchasing products that would lead to reduced water usage. 

 Air Quality

The Port protects the air quality both internally and externally at all Port owned facilities through the use of environmentally friendly operation equipment and reducing the need of unnecessary transport in daily operations.  

Energy Efficiency

The Port strives to utilize the most energy efficient equipment in all facilities and operations and invests in studying the innovative energy technologies in solar and wind power for future Port uses. 

Purchasing Supplies

The Port considers the environmental impacts of our purchasing which leads us to incorporate environmental sustainability in every purchasing decision. This includes looking into materials used to make a product, following strict standards for safe and environmental disposal of hazardous materials, and considering the long term use and impact of a product. 

Community Engagement

The Port endeavors to partner with stakeholders, clients, and community partners that share the Port's green values and work on projects to further environmental sustainability in Port operations. In addition, Port staff is encouraged to be responsible, corporate green citizens.