Responsibility and sustainability form the backbone of our business
Sustainability, including social, ecological and financial responsibility, is at the core of the business of the Port of Turku. Our goal is to take into account the impact of our operations on people, the environment and society, both as part of our decision-making and practical work.
We comply with certified ERP systems for our various operations. We have an ISO 9001-certified quality management system, ISO 14001-certified environmental management system and ISO 45001-certified occupational health and safety management system. In order to secure shipping and port operations, we comply with the international ISPS Code (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code).
A visible and functional part of the community
The Port of Turku and the City of Turku have grown and developed side by side for centuries. This history has made the port an inseparable part of Turku, which is characterised by maritime life and internationality. For centuries, Turku’s port has had an impact on the city and region and even beyond national borders. This is a tradition that we want to uphold and that is why we are actively involved in supporting the lives and activities of the various stakeholders that comprise our community.
A contributor to large and small events
In 2024, the Port of Turku played a significant role when the large sailing ships of the Tall Ships Race moored in Turku in July. Our operative department participated in the organisation of the event, including, for example, ensuring the water supply for participating ships and overseeing waste water treatment and other waste management. Together with various authorities, we were also involved in the security arrangements for the event, which were more extensive than in earlier years.
The passenger harbour area was also utilised for the 2024 Slot and Kesärauha (summer peace) Festivals. In November, the Port of Turku hosted ships representing NATO defence forces who were participating in the Freezing Winds exercise.
Support for local and international communities
We have provided visible support to the community by sponsoring promising young athletes. In October 2024, we signed a two-year co-operation agreement with Mustafe Muuse, a young long-distance runner who has his sights set on the European Athletics Championships in 2026. During 2024, the 22-year-old resident of Turku earned several top Finnish medals and, in January 2025, was honoured as Role Model of the Year at Finland’s national sports gala. The recognitions continued in February, when he was chosen as Turkunian of the Year.
In addition to our own economic area, we also want to contribute to a better future globally.
In 2024, we made a Christmas donation through UNICEF to benefit the children of Ukraine.
UNICEF is a global organisation working for the rights and well-being of children. We were also involved in supporting the Mercy Ships Race event held in connection with Maritime Day in Mariehamn in May. The event raised funds for Mercy Ships and its African-based hospital ships, Global Mercy and Africa Mercy.
Stakeholder involvement in co-operation
The services of the Port of Turku are carried out in close co-operation with Port of Turku Ltd, shipping companies, port operators, logistics operators and other stakeholders. We implement the development of the port and services by listening to the needs of our customers and stakeholders. By involving different actors in port development projects, we ensure that everyone’s expectations are taken into account and that the end result meets the specific objectives set for each project. Stakeholder involvement is also strengthened through the formation of working groups that focus on practical issues. Regular meetings are held by, for example, operator and marketing teams, on which our customers have strong representation. One form of co-operation is joint exhibitions at international events for the maritime traffic and logistics sectors.
Customers are our most important stakeholder group, and contact and communications with them are actively maintained on a personal level as well. We measure our customer experience with an annual survey, the aim of which is to identify the strengths and areas for improvement from the customer perspective and to gain valuable feedback that will enhance our collaboration. According to the 2024 survey, overall satisfaction with our operations has increased from the previous year. In total, 94% of respondents rated our activities positively. Positive feedback was particularly given to ship services and weighing services of Port Control as well as to the willingness and flexibility of personnel.
Active Board work guides our operations
The operations of Port of Turku Ltd are managed by its Board of Directors, whose duties and responsibilities are determined by virtue of the Limited Liability Companies Act and other applicable legislation. The Board manages the administration of the Port and appropriate organisation of its operations. The Board processes and decides on all significant matters concerning the company’s operations.
The members of the Board, elected by the Annual General Meeting of Port of Turku Ltd on 26 April 2024, include: Ville Niinistö (Chairman) and Taru Pätäri (Vice Chairman), as well as Harri Virta, Sini Häkkinen, Mikael Miikkola, Jussi Hakala and Juha Sumentola. The Board convened 13 times during the year.
Ethical business activities
Ethics are an important part of our business approach. Our core principles are respect for human rights, diversity and equality. In business, we adhere to openness, transparency and integrity both within our own organisation and in relation to our customers and stakeholders.
Our procurement procedures are legal and responsible and we require the same from our co-operative partners. By working with reliable partners, we ensure sustainable and corruption-free supply chains.
Our ethical choices are also reflected in practice, for example, in our attitude towards the war in Ukraine. Together with the City of Turku, we decided in March 2023 that the Port of Turku would, for the time being, no longer receive Russian ships as an objection to the country’s attack on Ukraine.
Financial responsibility: Profitability is the basis for sustainable action
The Port of Turku bears its financial responsibility by ensuring the profitability, competitiveness and efficiency of its business operations.
Our strong financial standing enables the company to meet the needs of our various stakeholders, the obligations imposed by society and the development of port operations in accordance with the principles of sustainable development.
Financial responsibility includes the appropriate payment of taxes and other public fees, which are used to support social services and the development of the local economy. Through our profitable business, we strengthen the economic well-being of the surrounding community and have a positive impact on employment and the economy of Turku and the region as a whole. At the same time, we facilitate significant, long-term investments in the development of the port.
Risk management is one aspect of financial responsibility. Our risk management supports the company’s strategic and business objectives and ensures the continuity of operations, also within changing conditions. Risk management involves identifying and preparing for various external and internal risks. During 2024, we developed our internal supervision and risk management comprehensively with consideration for the scope and structure of our operations. The most significant risks and uncertainties, as well as other factors affecting the development of operations, were assessed for all aspects of the port during 2024. On the basis of that survey, we drew up our own risk management plan.
Text: Kari Ahonen
Photo: Jarmo Piironen
