The Retail Industry Leaders Association is teaming up with the Coalition for Responsible Transportation to ramp up efforts to reduce diesel emissions in and around the country's ports.
Through the partnership, which is effective Oct. 1, CRT will collaborate with the RILA's members to further reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

"CRT's leadership and innovative market-based approach to reducing diesel emissions has yielded impressive results at the ports of Southern California," said Casey Chroust, RILA executive vice president for retail operations. "Retailers are committed in improving air-quality in and around ports, and their investment in equipment and pursuit of innovative practices are widely recognized. This partnership will allow retailers and the broader shipping community to collaborate to achieve shared goals."

CRT is an advocacy group for the implementation of practical and responsible solutions that reduce port truck pollution without disrupting the flow of commerce. Its membership in comprised of national shippers such as Target, Best Buy, Converse, Gap Inc., The Home Depot and Wal-Mart Stores; ocean carriers including NYK Group Companies, Hanjin Shipping, and "K" Line America; and drayage providers and equipment manufacturers.

Since the launch of the Los Angeles and Long Beach Clean Truck Program, CRT member companies have deployed nearly 2,000 model year 2007 or newer trucks into drayage service in Southern California. These new clean trucks emit 80 percent fewer air pollutants than older trucks serving the port, have been privately financed by CRT members, and have been voluntarily deployed three years ahead of the port's deadlines.

CRT has also been involved in the development and implementation of industry-supported clean truck programs across the country including the ports of Oakland, Seattle, Tacoma and New York/New Jersey.

The RILA is the trade association with members including more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers.

"RILA and its members are dedicated to the pursuit of operational innovations and partnerships, such as this, that further share environmental goals," said Kelly Kolb, RILA vice president for global supply chain policy.