The Challenge
As one of France’s busiest industrial-port areas and a major European logistics hub, the Port of Le Havre—managed by HAROPA PORT—faces significant environmental challenges. Intense maritime, industrial, and land-based activities contribute to air pollution, posing risks to the environment, workers, and local communities.
To tackle this, HAROPA PORT committed to a bold sustainability strategy, prioritizing advanced air quality monitoring. The goal: to enhance data collection, improve response times to pollution events, and increase transparency with stakeholders.
The CAPT’AIN Project
In collaboration with Atmo Normandie and the Incub’air laboratory, HAROPA PORT launched the CAPT’AIN project (Characterisation of the Performance of Miniaturised Air Sensors). The objective was to explore how compact, smart monitoring solutions could complement the existing air quality network by delivering higher-resolution, real-time environmental data.
To succeed, these solutions had to be:
- Easily deployable
- Capable of real-time monitoring
- Effective in identifying and mitigating emission sources
The Solution
To meet these needs, HAROPA PORT and Atmo Normandie selected Kunak AIR Pro stations—supplied by Acoem France—for their cutting-edge sensor technology and reliable performance in complex environments.
Five units were strategically installed across the port, enhancing coverage and complementing the traditional monitoring infrastructure. These compact stations provide real-time measurements of key pollutants, including:
- Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂)
- Nitrogen monoxide (NO)
- Carbon monoxide (CO)
- Particulate matter (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀)
Thanks to real-time data connectivity and automatic alerts, the port can now:
- Quickly detect pollution events
- Accurately pinpoint emission sources
- Take immediate corrective actions
This flexible and scalable solution also integrates seamlessly with other sustainability initiatives at the port, such as the electrification of maritime terminals.
Impact
The deployment of Kunak AIR Pro stations has transformed HAROPA PORT’s air quality strategy:
- Enhanced Monitoring: Real-time data enables faster and more informed decision-making.
- Improved Response: Authorities can now act swiftly to manage pollution episodes.
- Optimized Strategies: Detailed, geo-referenced data supports targeted mitigation measures.
- Community Engagement: Transparent access to air quality data fosters trust with local residents and stakeholders.
As a result, HAROPA PORT has not only strengthened its environmental oversight but also laid a solid foundation for ongoing green transition efforts.
France 3 Normandie covered the sensor deployment at the Port of Le Havre in a special report aired on February 20, 2025. [Watch the video]
Key Benefits
- Real-time monitoring for proactive environmental management
- Precise identification of pollutant sources
- Scalable, low-maintenance monitoring infrastructure
- Enhanced decision-making with reliable, real-time data
- Stronger integration with sustainability initiatives like quay electrification
- Greater transparency and trust with local communities and regulators
