Americas News
Port of Long Beach Hails 88% Reduction in Diesel PM Emissions
The Port of Long Beach today said as part of the latest study into the efficacy of its emissions reduction efforts, it has achieved an 88 percent reduction in diesel particulate matter emissions compared to 2005 levels.
"The Port of Long Beach, in partnership with the Port of Los Angeles, has been a global leader in reducing pollution associated with goods movement," said Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia.
"We're committed to a zero-emissions future and our Port continues to prove that you don't have to sacrifice the environment for a strong economy."
The inventory also found that since 2005 nitrogen oxides were down 56 percent, sulfur oxides are 97 percent lower, and greenhouse gases are down 22 percent.
The Port noted the reductions were achieved by a combination of efforts as part of its Clean Air Action Plan adopted in 2006, including low-sulfur fuel regulations for ships, increased use of shore power for container ships, and the Port's Green Flag Vessel Speed Reduction Program.
The first phase of the zero-emissions Long Beach Container Terminal opened on Pier E in 2016, which also helped to drive down the air pollution, and means 11 percent of the Port's fleet of cargo-handling equipment is zero-emissions, the Port added.
"Our pollution-reduction strategies begin before a vessel enters the harbor and continue after cargo leaves on a truck or locomotive," said Harbor Commission President Lou Anne Bynum.
"This is a model we worked hard to achieve at the Port of Long Beach, and it's one we'll continue to improve until we reach zero emissions."
