2017 marks the 20th anniversary of the Ecoports network. What started in 1997 as a separate initiative of a number of ports proactive in the field of environment evolved over the years towards a solid network of around 100 European ports within ESPO.

In 2011, the Ecoports network was fully integrated into ESPO and this meant a lot. It made clear that environmental management and excellence was no longer a concern of an environmental port elite but has become a concern of all European ports and was integrated in the overall policy of the European Sea Ports Organisation.