Communities and Ports - Developing better relationships by changing attitudes

摘要

Port Kembla is a medium sized Australian port that has done much to clean up its act; however, many in the local community do not see much change. Rapid development and lack of environmental controls in the Inner Harbour development, thirty to forty years ago resulted in a poor water quality that sustained little biological life. Today, the port's waters are clear and support a wide range of marine life. Waste products from industry and been reduced significantly and work continues to reduce emissions even further but this work remains largely unrecognised. The evolution of a strong and developing interaction between Port Kembla harbour industries, port managers and the harbour community are discussed. The benefits of using good open communications are also emphasised. The development of attitudes within the local community is examined, as are the opportunities for attitudinal change. Attitudes are difficult to change and a model using the internet to provide information to community members is described. It will reduce the gap between reality and community perception. This model is estimated to be applicable to more than 70% of Australian ports as well as many international ports.