Port of Los Angeles joins program to reduce emissions

Shippers who voluntarily agree to reduce emissions from cargo vessels entering the Port of Los Angeles will be entitled to a series of incentives under a new plan adopted by the Board of Harbor Commissioners. Beginning July 1, financial incentives will be offered to shippers who use low-sulfur fuel and equip their vessels with efficient engines that are capable of plugging into shore-side electrical stations. The incentives range from US$250 to 5,250. The Environmental Ship Index Program is a global initiative, which was enacted last year by the International Association of Ports and Harbors. So far, 12 European ports have agreed to implement the program. Los Angeles is the first North American seaport to join, and officials at the Los Angeles Harbor said they will encourage their West Coast counterparts to participate. “The larger success of this program lies in its adoption by as many ports as possible to increase the rewards for operators willing to invest in clean air and maximize health benefits for everyone,” said Geraldine Knatz, executive director of the Port of Los Angeles and president of the International Association of Ports and Harbors. An estimated 30% of the ships calling at the Port of Los Angeles are expected to qualify for the incentives, which could mean a decrease of 16 tons of diesel particulate matter in the first year alone. (May 3, 2012)