Port of Long Beach requests proposals for zero-emissions technology

The Port of Long Beach (PLB), in partnership with the Port of Los Angeles, has released a request for proposals seeking demonstrations of technologies to upgrade tugboats, crew boats, barges and other harbour craft to cleaner forms of propulsion. According to PLB, harbour craft are the second-largest source of diesel particulate matter air pollution in San Pedro Bay, making up 18% of the emissions. The vessels are also said to contribute 10% of nitrogen oxide and 6% of greenhouse gas pollution. “We are looking at ways to reduce emissions from harbour craft beyond existing regulatory requirements,” said Heather Tomley, director of environmental planning, Port of Long Beach. “We need more viable, cost-effective technologies, and we’re going to leverage all of our tools to lead the goods movement industry to a more sustainable future.” The request by the ports under the Technology Advancement Program offers US$500,000 (US$250,000 from each port) for one or two demonstrations of technologies that will upgrade engines to Tier 3 or Tier 4 environmental standards – making engines up to 70% cleaner. Proposals are due by Thursday, 21 September.