Sustainability is more than a vision
FROM ROAD TO WATER AND RAIL
Water and rail transport are among the most energy-efficient modes of freight transport – we uniquely combine them to shift freight transport from road to modes with lower greenhouse gas emissions and higher energy efficiency. For decades, our intermodal transport services have supported the shift of freight from road to rail and waterway transport, helping to reduce transport-related emissions.
Sustainability is firmly embedded in our corporate strategy. With 647 employees and a cargo throughput of 21.4 million tonnes in 2025, we are taking responsibility for ensuring that our port logistics are fit for the future. Through investment in energy efficiency, alternative propulsion systems and renewable energy, we are continuously driving forward the sustainable development of our port sites.
ENVIRONMENT, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE - HAND IN HAND
We do not see the three pillars of sustainability as separate disciplines. The further development of our services in the handling sector, taking into account environmental, social, and economic aspects, is our highest priority. However, this does not mean that these aspects are contradictory; instead, the common path always applies.
ENVIRONMENT
Handling of loads weighing tons – of course, this requires a lot of energy; it's simple physics. We are working to increasingly cover our energy demand through renewable and lower-emission energy sources.
In the near future, we will be focusing on the use of renewable energy sources and lower-emission transport technologies, including tugmasters powered by alternative drive systems.
Our efforts do not stop at the terminal boundary but include our modal partners as well. This involves expanding shore power supply (OPS) for ships and acquiring hybrid-electric locomotives.
For example, we are already using solar energy: The photovoltaic system on our port administration building generates renewable electricity and reduces the need for externally sourced power. By installing demand-controlled LED lighting units in our halls, we have been able to significantly reduce electricity consumption.
In the 2025 reporting year, our total energy consumption amounted to 31,122.8 MWh. At the same time, we were able to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1 and Scope 2) by around 25 per cent compared with the previous year. Key factors contributing to this were the use of green electricity, the optimisation of energy consumption and the ongoing modernisation of our infrastructure.
We are already relying on photovoltaics, smart energy management systems, LED lighting and the electrification of handling equipment. Furthermore, we are consistently driving forward the expansion of shore power supply and other renewable energy sources.
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Our employees are a vital resource in implementing our business. We create good working conditions that foster sustainable commitment and a high level of trust. Occupational health and safety play a significant role in this. In May 2025, our efforts were again recognized by the Institution for statutory Accident Insurance and Prevention for Trade and Logistics (BGHW) with the "Safety with System" seal of approval – an achievement that makes us proud and motivates us to maintain our high standards.
We offer our employees benefits that go beyond the traditional framework. Programs like WellPass e-gym, which provides access to a variety of sports and fitness offers at a low monthly fee, are included, as well as the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) OTHEB, which offers support in challenging life situations and is easily accessible to all employees.
Our responsibility towards our employees is also reflected in specific key figures. Of a total of 647 employees, 96.9 per cent are on permanent contracts and 93.2 per cent benefit from collective agreement provisions. In 2025, a Group-wide plan to promote women was also adopted, comprising a total of 40 measures to promote equal opportunities and diversity by 2028.
Health and safety at work remains a key area of focus. In addition to extensive preventive measures, LHG was once again awarded the ‘Sicher mit System’ quality mark in 2025.
GOVERNANCE
Sustainable economic action means implementing the business model responsibly with good business practices. This ensures a trustworthy cooperation with our customers and business partners.
LHG maintains a modern Compliance Management System (CMS) that meets all legal requirements. This includes, among other things, a zero-tolerance strategy for justified violations and a clear communication concept based on the contents of our compliance manual.
In the spirit of good partnership, we are in close contact with the authorities of the Hanseatic City of Lübeck and other regulatory and supervisory bodies. Regular meetings are held with the Lübeck Port Authority, the Water Authority, the Office for Occupational Safety, the Federal Railway Authority, the Lübeck Fire Department, the Water Police etc. emphasizing our willingness to closely cooperate with representatives from these areas.
For LHG, responsible corporate governance means transparency, integrity and long-term value creation. No instances of corruption or breaches of compliance were identified during the reporting year. Our management systems, which comply with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 27001 and ISO 50001, help us to systematically embed sustainability across all areas of the business.