By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of Los Angeles saw nitrogen oxides emissions tumble 60 percent from 2005 emissions levels, its lowest level to date, according to the port’s 2017 Inventory of Air Emissions.
This latest figure comes as the port boasts its highest cargo volumes to date with 9.34 million TEUs. It also shows that the port has reached its 2023 Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP) goals, with diesel particulate matter falling 86 percent, and sulfur oxides down 98 percent.
“Our port is driving the global economy forward – and showing the world how we can produce record-breaking growth and protect the environment at the same time,” said Mayor Eric Garcetti. “Our progress on reducing emissions to just a fraction of our 2005 levels – while we ship more cargo than ever – is proof that our Clean Air Action Plan is working and exceeding expectations.”
Changes along the supply chain contributed to lowering emissions. The port saw fewer, but larger ships equipped with cleaner technology. Vessels also had to adhere to tighter rules that required them to use shore power and trucks and cargo-handling equipment had to be energy efficient.
“This is why cleaner technology and increased efficiency matter,” said Chris Cannon, Director of Environmental Management for the Port of Los Angeles. “Greenhouse gases come from burning fuel. The more cargo we move, the more CO2 emissions we generate, and greater the need to switch to cleaner low-carbon based equipment, while continuing to optimize port operations.”
