Ocean carriers bringing the greenest ships to the Port of Long Beach can earn the world’s most generous sustainable vessel financial incentives, starting from July 1, 2021.
Specifically, the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissionersapproved changes related to incorporating the international Environmental Ship Index (ESI) into the Port’s Green Ship Incentive Program, which began in 2012.
A voluntary system, the ESI identifies seagoing ships surpassing the current emission standards of the IMO.
The Green Ship Incentive Program encourages shipping lines to send their newest, cleanest oceangoing vessels to the Port of Long Beach. More than $1.7 million in incentives were paid to participants in 2020.
Our goal is to increase participation in the already successful Green Ship Program by aligning it with international sustainable maritime transportation efforts. These incentives are the largest offered to vessels and Tier III ships of any seaport, and we expect the update will have positive impacts in Long Beach and around the globe
said Harbor Commission President Frank Colonna.
What is more, port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero noted more than 50 ports worldwide and over 8,000 vessels are taking part in the Environmental Ship Index.
This change and offer of financial rewards gives operators even more reasons to be socially responsible and make investments in cleaner fuels, ship modifications or on-board technologies that improve air quality beyond required standards
adds Mr. Cordero.
The updated program includes three incentive levels ranging from $600 to $6,000, depending on a vessel’s ESI score. Vessels with main engines meeting IMO’s Tier III standard, which require dedicated NOx emission control technologies, are eligible for an additional $3,000 credit, meaning a vessel could be eligible for up to $9,000 on every call.
