Environmental Ship Index (ESI) program, will take effect from the start of July
The Port of Los Angeles has become the first US port to adopt an international clean air program that rewards ocean carriers for bringing their newest and cleanest vessels to the port.
The Environmental Ship Index (ESI) program, will take effect from the start of July following the formal approval of the Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners.
The ESI, already underway at several major European ports, is a web-based tool developed by the World Ports Climate Initiative (WPCI), a project of the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH).
The ESI program offers immediate and significant clean air benefits by rewarding vessel operators for voluntary engine, fuel and technology enhancements that reduce emissions from ships beyond the regulatory environmental standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Ship emissions are the single-largest source of air pollution from port-related operations.
While diesel particulate matter (DPM) and sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions from ships calling at the Port of Los Angeles decreased 68 percent and 74 percent, respectively, between 2005 and 2010, Los Angeles sees the ESI as another strong step to encourage the building and deployment of cleaner-burning ships in the TransPacific trade lane.
“The ESI sets the gold standard for green shipping and we encourage other ports to follow suit,” said Port Executive Director Geraldine Knatz.
“The larger success of this program lies in its adoption by as many ports as possible to increase the rewards for operators willing to invest in clean air and maximize the health benefits for everyone.”
The Port of Los Angeles developed its ESI with input from the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association. Its program also conforms to the San Pedro Bay Clean Ports Air Action Plan, which sets specific bay-wide targets for near-term pollution reduction through 2014 and long-term objectives through 2023.
To participate, operators must enroll their companies and vessels in the ESI program through the IAPH/WPCI, with registration prior to July 1 encouraged. To receive the incentive payment, operators must also register with the Port of Los Angeles. Registration is free.
Source: Port Technolohgy
