Clean Hybrid Technology Gets EPA Verification
Clean hybrid technology that's already proving its value in two of the world's most environmentally sensitive ports has received verification from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA verified the XeroPoint Hybrid Tug Retrofit System (XeroPoint) pioneered by Foss Maritime of Seattle, Wash., and Aspin Kemp and Associates (AKA) of Stratford, PEI. The system captured the attention of the maritime industry for its potential economic and environmental savings as a Foss harbor tug was undergoing extensive testing in the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles. The rigorous EPA verification process ensures the XeroPoint hybrid system is an effective choice for use on any U.S. harbor tug seeking to meet the nation's highest environmental standards.
Port Power Project to Reduce Greenhouse Emissions
The Port of Hueneme reached a milestone in its Shoreside Power Project when the Board of Harbor Commissioners approved a key funding agreement to help vessels plug into electrical power at berth and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. “This is a model of strong public policy working for the betterment of our community and region. The execution of the contract ensures the success of the project and will keep commerce moving while improving our air and quality of life,” said Port Commissioner President, Jason Hodge.
Workboats, Harbour Vessel Owners May Qualify for CARB Loans
The California Air Resources Board has received $5 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Funds to help clean up a variety of boats and vessels that operate in California’s ports and harbors. These funds are designed to reduce emissions from a variety of marine vessels that use diesel engines, such as charter fishing boats, commercial fishing boats, crew and supply vessels, ferry and excursion boats, pilot vessels, tow boats, tug-boats and work boats. The funds will be used to guarantee loans for small businesses who wish to upgrade to cleaner operating boats…
NOAA: Air Pollution Plummets when Ships Shift Fuels
New clean fuel regulations in California and voluntary slowdowns by shipping companies substantially reduce air pollution caused by near-shore ships, according to a new NOAA-led study published online today in Environmental Science & Technology. The study examined a container ship operating under a 2009 California regulation requiring that ships switch to low-sulfur fuels as they approach the California coast, and also adhering to a voluntary state slowdown policy, intended to reduce pollution. The research team found that emissions of several health-damaging pollutants, including sulfur dioxide and particulate matter, dropped by as much as 90 percent.
APL ‘Cold-Irons’ Ships In Oakland To Clear The Air
APL flipped the switch today on a clean-air effort that’s part of California’s maritime future. The Singapore-based container shipping line became the first to shut down, or, “cold-iron,” a vessel’s engines to eliminate exhaust emissions at the Port of Oakland. As others follow suit – and regulators say they must – cold-ironing will become a staple on California’s coast. “We have brought cold-ironing to the port,” proclaimed APL Americas President Gene Seroka. The 900-foot APL…
Maersk Line Celebrates 5th Anniversary of Fuel Switch
Charlotte, North Carolina (March 31, 2011) – On March 31, 2006, Maersk Line’s SINE MÆRSK changed the course of low-sulfur distillate fuel use when she called Los Angeles. Five years later, this fuel switch has resulted in a 3700 ton savings in air emissions benefitting those who live and work in California. A 4100 ton savings in air emissions has been made in North America with vessels calling California, Tacoma, Seattle, Vancouver and Houston. There has been a 95% reduction of sulfur oxides (SOx)…
