Ports reduce emissions amid deadlines and calls for more
Author: Parker Collins
The port complex encompasses so many things — trucks, ships, rail. A few of these elements are up against some big compliance deadlines, all to address pollution. For stars, on Jan. 1 a statewide regulation from the California Air Resource Board went into effect. Nearly all trucks and buses are now required to have 2010 or newer model year engines to reduce emissions. It’s a big transition; the marine terminals are implementing even more changes. Making sure goods get to you with as little pollution as possible, that’s something for Heather Tomley, the managing director of Planning and Environmental Affairs at the Port of Long Beach. “It’s important work and I feel like I’m doing good work that’s helping to support the community, helping to support the region,” Tomley said. She points to recent improvements, like the electrified rubber tire gantry cranes at the SSA Pacific Container Terminal. They used to rely on diesel motors to move s. The Port of Long Beach aims to convert all terminal equipment to zero emissions by 2030. Andasan is teaming up with others to demand further electrification and less harmful fuel alternatives. “I want to honor and respect the amazing work the port is doing to try to clean up the emissions at their facility, but also it’s not enough. We’re so far behind,” Andasan said. Tomley carefully walks a tightrope, balancing environmental concerns and profits. “We’ve been able to prove that you can reduce emissions while still growing as a port,” Tomley said.