Port of L.A. Recognizes Green Initiatives
The Port of Los Angeles honored 26 shipping and cruise lines for their participation in the Port’s Vessel Speed Reduction Program (VSRP), an initiative that involves the lowering of vessel speeds when ships approach the Port. The VSRP has resulted in significant decreases in diesel particulate matter, sulfur oxide and nitrogen oxide emissions into the environment since it was established in 2001. For the first time, the Port also honored 12 ship carriers for their participation in the Environmental Ship Index (ESI), an international clean air program that rewards ocean carriers for bringing their newest and cleanest vessels to the Port.
Stolt-Nielsen Says Dow Lawsuit Without Merit
Commenting on a lawsuit filed recently by Dow Chemical Co. against four chemical carriers including Stolt-Nielsen S.A., SNSA said that the company believes the Dow Chemical claims are without merit and that it will vigorously defend itself against those claims. The company added that the relationships between its chemical shipping unit - Stolt-Nielsen Transportation Group B.V. - and its customers are governed by contracts that contain arbitration clauses. SNSA said it will move for the courts to compel arbitration as agreed to by customers in their contracts with the company. The other three carriers named in the Dow Chemical suit are Odfjell ASA, Jo Tankers B.V. and Tokyo Marine Co, a unit of Mitsui O.S.K. Line Group.
