Decarbonizing America's Busiest Cargo Ports: A Call for Zero-Emissions Cargo Handling
Key Ideas
  • Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach handle 40% of US shipping container traffic, necessitating urgent decarbonization of cargo handling equipment.
  • Cargo handling equipment emits over 15% of port emissions, impacting nearby communities with toxic air pollution.
  • Several terminals are already transitioning to zero-emissions equipment, with technology readiness levels improving.
  • Zero-emissions yard tractors and RTG cranes are cost-competitive with diesel options, supported by California state incentives.
The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, critical hubs for US shipping, are facing pressure to decarbonize their cargo handling equipment to combat coastal air pollution. With most equipment currently running on diesel, a transition to zero-emissions alternatives is crucial to improve air quality and reduce climate impacts. Despite challenges like data gaps and infrastructure needs, initiatives like the Mission Possible Partnership are analyzing the total cost of ownership for battery electric and hydrogen-powered equipment to guide stakeholders. Notably, cargo handling equipment accounts for over 15% of port emissions, impacting nearby communities with elevated pollution levels. Terminal operators are already piloting electric equipment, showcasing a shift towards sustainability. The article emphasizes the importance of addressing cargo handling equipment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030. While technology readiness levels for zero-emissions equipment are on the rise, factors like infrastructure availability and user preferences influence technology adoption. Moreover, cost analyses show that zero-emissions yard tractors and RTG cranes are economically competitive with diesel options today, supported by California state incentives. This shift towards zero-emissions cargo handling not only benefits the environment but also improves public health in communities neighboring these busy ports.
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