Americas News
Ports of L.A. and Long Beach Move Toward Zero Emissions with "Bold" Updated Emission Reduction Plan
The ports of Los Angeles (Port of L.A.) and Long Beach (PoLB) today announced that they have proposed a "bold" new version of the San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP), which the ports say moves them closer to a zero emissions future.
The 2017 plan proposes updates to the ports' Vessel Speed Reduction Program, expansions to the use of state-approved alternative technologies for the reduction of at-berth emissions, incentives for ships' clean technology upgrades, and further encouragement for carriers to utilise their cleanest vessels when calling San Pedro Bay ports, as well as the accelerated deployment of cleaner harbor craft engines.
The proposed CAAP 2017 would also see the further development infrastructure plans to support terminal equipment electrification, alternative fuels, and other energy resource goals, as well as to implement viable energy conservation, resiliency, and management strategies.
"Building on the unprecedented success of the earlier plans, the working document contains the boldest measures yet for moving the San Pedro Bay ports toward their ultimate goal of eliminating all harmful air pollution from port-related sources," said the ports.
Ports officials are said to have met Thursday to unveil the CAAP 2017 Discussion Document, beginning a three-month public review and comment period, which will run until through February 17, and will see the ports host further community meetings in order to gather public comment the document.
"These updates will move the region closer to a zero emissions future," said Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia, adding: "we have already proven that it's possible to increase jobs and trade with cleaner air and healthier communities and I want to thank all of our partners who helped make this possible."
The Discussion Document is noted to prioritise the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from port-related sources to 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050 - a target noted to align with the state of California's clean air goals under its Sustainable Freight Action Plan.
"There is still a lot of work to do and getting across the finish line will not be easy or inexpensive," said Ambassador Vilma Martinez, President of the Los Angeles Harbor Commission.
"Partnerships and cooperation among all stakeholders will be critical to success, as will be the financial participation from both the public and private sectors."
Earlier this month, Maersk Line (Maersk), PoLB, and Port of L.A. jointly announced that they are partnering to measure the environmental benefits of a $125 million "energy efficiency makeover" completed on 12 Maersk ships.
