The Port of Los Angeles.

The Port of Los Angeles.

Following the implementation of programs at the Port of Los Angeles to reduce emissions from trucks, ships, trains and other equipment, a new report shows the facility has made big strides in cutting back on air pollution.

The port’s newly released 2013 Inventory of Air Emissions shows the facility has set new records with diesel particulate matter down 80%, nitrogen oxides down 57% and sulfur oxides down 90% over the previous eight years. The findings also reflect significant progress in curbing greenhouse gases, down 23% since a regional plan was adopted in 2006.

Part of the reason for the reductions is the number of newer clean trucks is on the rise at the port, according to the report. Although heavy-duty trucks with 2007 model year engines meet the requirement for drayage trucks allowed in the port, the trend among companies updating their fleets is to buy 2010 or newer models. Today, 26% of the drayage moves to and from the port are handled by trucks with engines that meet 2010 federal emissions standards, which are less polluting the 2007 models.

“This port’s commitment to clean air is stronger than ever,” said Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka. “These latest results show that our industry partners, who have been key to our success all along, are voluntarily expanding their sustainable practices to ensure these gains will last.”

According to the Port of L.A. the latest clean air gains were made during a year in which no major regulations took effect.

Officials believe pollution numbers will continue to improve with more ships nearby the facility voluntarily reducing their speed to help lower emissions and power requirements for ships that took effect the first of this year establishing rules for container, refrigerated and cruise vessels to run on shore-side electricity while at berth in Los Angeles and five other ports.

The Port of Los Angeles is the largest U.S. port handling about 40% of the nation’s container traffic.

 

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