By Mark Edward Nero
The Port of Long Beach was recognized as the “Best Green Seaport” in the world Tues., June 17 at the 28th annual Asian Freight & Supply Chain Awards in Shanghai, China by the Cargonews Asia shipping trade publication.
The Asian Freight & Supply Chain Awards are based on an annual poll of thousands of professionals in freight transportation services. Awards are given in numerous categories, including best shipping lines, container terminals, air cargo terminals, airports and rail haulers.
The Long Beach port was the only seaport on the North American West Coast to receive an award during the ceremonies.
The “Green Seaport” award, according to the AFSCA, is reserved for ports that have “demonstrated compliance with green freight transport regulations and environmental standards; investment in green initiatives, technology and action plans; incorporation of environmental requirements in strategic planning; use of a policy on reducing fuel emissions from freight handling operations; and ongoing training of staff in green initiatives and in measures to lower carbon footprints.”
For nearly 10 years the Port of Long Beach’s “Green Port Policy,” has helped reduce the port’s impact on the community, wildlife and the environment. Since the policy’s implementation, the POLB has overseen significant improvement in air and water quality with an array of environmental initiatives, including its Clean Trucks, Green Flag Vessel Speed Reduction and Technology Advancement programs.
