According to a research study performed by Energy Futures Inc., “U.S. Container Ports and Air Pollution: a Perfect Storm,” the U.S. ports are one of the largest producers greenhouse gas emissions in their respective cities. The report also mentions that the ports are working quickly to reduce the emissions. The 10 month study included 10 ports, which handle 80% of the US imports. The ports included Los Angeles, CA; Long Beach, CA; New York and neighboring New Jersey; Oakland, CA; Savannah, GA; Tacoma, WA; Hampton Roads, VA; Seattle, WA; Charleston, SC; and Houston, TX. Energy Futures President, James Cannon, stated: “The combination of growing U.S. port activity, the densely populated regions where most ports are located, and the prevailing onshore wind patterns that accumulate rather than disperse port air pollution create a ‘perfect storm’ of threats to public health” Cannon stated “We’ve concluded that the best way to lower air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and diversify fuel supply at US container ports is to use alternative fuels or advanced technologies to replace diesel.” |
