The US Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach have reinforced their commitment to zero emissions, by signing an agreement with the South Coast Air Quality Management District. The agreement specifies concrete deadlines for moving to zero emissions.
Since around 2000, the ports here have been very concerned about cleaner air for the South Coast region of California. And there’s no question any more that people’s health in the region has suffered.
And the prolonged efforts since the Clean Air Program of a decade ago have made a significant improvement. The article states that the Clean Air Action Plan that preceded this agreement has already delivered measurable environmental gains, including 90% reductions in diesel particulate matter, 68% cuts in nitrogen oxides and 98% decreases in sulfur oxides from port-related sources since 2005.
The agreement addresses emissions from oceangoing vessels. One way is to use the Environmental Ship Index Incentive Programs. Another move is to zero emissions drayage operations. Some penalties will be introduced for violations.
Once implemented, the agreement will target emissions from cargo handling equipment, harbor craft, trucks, trains and ocean-going vessels across the ports complex.
Three cheers for organizations that keep their eye on environmental improvement despite the current negative talk.
Mike Schuler 11/11/2025
