Port of Los Angeles Achieves Major Emissions Reductions in 2023

The Port of Los Angeles (POLA), the busiest container port in North America, continues to reduce air pollution from maritime activities. The latest 2023 Air Emissions Inventory Report showcases significant progress in cutting harmful emissions, providing a valuable model for industries seeking to balance operational efficiency with sustainability goals.

Key Highlights 

Emissions Reductions Are Exceeding Targets

The Port has surpassed its 2023 emissions reduction goals. Here’s what was achieved:

• Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM): Reduced by 91%.
• Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): Reduced by 74%.
• Sulfur Oxides (SOx): Reduced by 98%.

These reductions are crucial for improving air quality in the surrounding regions and meeting the stringent environmental regulations businesses operating within or around the Port must follow.

Cleaner Operations Despite Lower Cargo Volumes

POLA handled 8.63 million TEUs in 2023, a 13% decrease from 2022. Yet, emissions decreased even further, proving that efficiency and sustainability coexist. A shift to renewable diesel in harbor craft and locomotives was key in lowering emissions, demonstrating a tangible return on investment in clean fuel technologies.

Key Areas of Impact for B2B Stakeholders

• Ocean-Going Vessels (OGVs) are the largest contributors to port emissions, accounting for over 55% of NOx and 46% of PM2.5 emissions. However, transitioning to cleaner fuel and shore power technologies drastically reduces their environmental footprint.
• Heavy-Duty Vehicles (HDVs), including trucks that service the port, have benefited from newer technologies and regulatory programs like the Clean Truck Program, resulting in a 33% reduction in PM emissions compared to 2022. 

Pier 300 Channel

What This Means for Businesses

As the Port continues to evolve its operations, businesses operating within or near it must align with its sustainability strategies. Here’s what you can expect:

• Compliance with Stricter Emission Standards: Reducing emissions is tied to regulatory compliance. Expect the pressure to continue for businesses to adopt cleaner vehicles, fuels, and technologies.
• Reduced Operating Costs: Companies that invest in cleaner technologies may experience long-term cost savings. The transition to renewable diesel has helped many Port-related operations become more cost-efficient, thanks to fewer maintenance needs and longer equipment lifespans.
• Partnership Opportunities: There is a growing opportunity for collaborations focused on clean fuel solutions, renewable energy, and zero-emission technologies that help meet regulatory demands while improving operational efficiency.

Supplemental Information: Emissions Data

Detailed insights into the Port’s 2023 emissions performance:

POLA Emissions Data

Efficiency Gains:

• Since 2005, NOx emissions efficiency (measured in tons per 10,000 TEUs) improved by 77%.
• DPM efficiency increased by 92%, while SOx efficiency improved by an incredible 99%.

These figures highlight the Port’s commitment to operating as cleanly as possible while maintaining a high level of operational throughput.

What’s Next for Businesses Working with POLA?

As the Port continues implementing its Clean Air Action Plan, businesses should be prepared for:

• The Expansion of Zero-Emission Truck Fleets: The Clean Truck Program is set to phase in more zero-emission trucks by 2035, requiring businesses to rely on transportation to explore near-zero and zero-emission technologies.
• More Investments in Renewable Energy: As the Port aims to deploy zero-emission cargo handling equipment and adopt cleaner energy sources, businesses offering solutions in these areas will find valuable opportunities to partner with the Port.
• Regulatory Compliance: With stricter emissions standards coming into effect, companies must stay ahead of evolving environmental regulations to avoid penalties and enhance their sustainability credentials.

For businesses operating within or alongside the Port of Los Angeles, the 2023 Air Emissions Inventory communicates that adopting cleaner technologies and reducing emissions is not just a regulatory requirement but a smart business strategy.