More Cargo but with Cleaner Air

The Port of Los Angeles have reported that their air pollution has continued to drop. New data has shown that from 2005 to 2011 emissions fell by as much as 76% with incoming container volumes increasing by 6%. On a year-to-year basis, there has been a decrease up to 7% of harmful emissions.

This report shows that the Port is three years ahead of schedule to meet their 2014 targets of reducing two main pollutants: diesel particulate matter (DPM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). The port is also on track to meet even more stringent 2023 emission reduction targets.

These findings reflect the Ports aim in cutting greenhouse gas emissions attributed to climate change. From 2005 to 2011 CO2 equivalent emissions fell by 19%

Clean-air strategies building on the Port’s success include its Vessel Speed Reduction Program; low-sulphur fuel requirements for ships; the Clean Truck Program whose final ban on drayage trucks with pre-2007 engines took effect Jan. 1, 2012; engine retrofits and gradual vessel replacement of older harbor craft; retrofit and turnover of cargo handling equipment; and replacement of older rail equipment with cleaner line haul and switcher locomotives.

The data documents the Port’s forward momentum and steadfast commitment to reducing – and eliminating, whenever possible – all harmful air emissions associated with its operations. “There’s no turning back,” said Knatz. “The benefits of environmental stewardship are clear and the Port will continue to lead the industry by growing green through innovation and collaboration with our stakeholders and partners.”