A REPORT from the Port of Melbourne Corporation (PoMC) says that the proposed channel-deepening project will not have long-term environmental effects on Port Phillip Bay.
The Supplementary Environment Effects Statement (SEES) from the PoMC, also shows that the economic case for the project is very strong. It's expected to generate economic benefits of almost A$2 billion (US$1.63 billion) and create more than 2,000 jobs.
Stephen Bradford, PoMC's CEO explained that PoMC's extensive scientific environmental investigations show there will be only short-term effects on sections of the bay, and that the channel deepening project will be limited to one per cent of the bay area.
The SEES shows the use of larger more efficient cargo ships would reduce transport costs and see savings passed on to exporters importers and consumers. This would be accompanied by a reduction in fuel consumption and subsequently lower emissions.
"It has been the port's objective to show why this project is economically vital for Victoria and that it is environmentally sustainable, and the SEES does that," said Mr Bradford.
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