The Port of Long Beach has achieved significant progress in reducing air pollution emissions in 2022 and is on track to meet its goals, according to a recent study released on Monday.
The annual emissions inventory report of the port, presented to the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners, reveals a 91% decrease in diesel particulates compared to 2005, a 63% decrease in nitrogen oxides, and a 97% decrease in sulfur oxides, all while experiencing a 36% increase in cargo volume.
This progress is measured against 2005, the year prior to the adoption of the original San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan.
The 2022 study year saw several contributing factors, including improved activity efficiency and operations.
The shipping congestion resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic had subsided by mid-year, and additional programs implemented, such as vessel queuing and reduced wait times at anchor, further alleviated congestion, as reported by port officials.
The port’s ongoing initiatives to promote greener operations also continued to have a positive impact, with 19% of cargo-handling equipment at terminals now operating with zero emissions.
“We take pride in our green programs and our commitment to sustainability,” said Bobby Olvera, president of the Long Beach Harbor Commission. “This emissions inventory is an accomplishment for the port, and while we celebrate, our focus remains on our ultimate goals, including achieving zero-emissions cargo handling by 2030 and zero-emissions trucking by 2035.”
Mario Cordero, the port’s CEO, emphasized the port’s “impressive record” of environmental achievements. He highlighted the importance of partnerships and cooperation with industry partners, labor, and every part of the supply chain that does business with the port in making these accomplishments possible.
“Everyone deserves credit for their commitment to the planet and their perseverance during challenging times, helping us reach these green milestones,” added Cordero.
The study also indicates improvement compared to 2021, which was marked by the pandemic and global supply chain congestion, resulting in increased emissions in the San Pedro Bay.
In 2022, diesel particulate matter was reduced by 28%, nitrogen oxides by 28%, and sulfur oxides by 7%, despite only a 3% decrease in container traffic, according to port officials.
Greenhouse gas emissions decreased by 1% in 2022 compared to the 2005 baseline, and were 16% lower than the 2021 survey.
The annual emissions inventory undergoes review by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, California Air Resources Board, and South Coast Air Quality Management District.
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