By
Rebecca Gibson |
The Port of Los Angeles has commended Crystal Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and 23 shipping companies for reducing their emissions through their participation in its Vessel Speed Reduction Program (VSRP).
The voluntary VSRP initiative is designed to reduce emissions from ocean-going vessels by slowing their speeds as they approach or depart the port at either 20 nautical miles from Point Fermin, or up to 40 nautical miles offshore.
It was established in 2001 and has resulted in significant decreases in diesel particulate matter, sulphur oxide (SOx) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions into the environment. The port pays incentives to shipping lines that achieve a 90 per cent or higher participation rate in VSRP in a calendar year.
In 2012, Los Angeles port achieved 100 per cent compliance for 543 vessels at 20 nautical miles and 386 vessels at 40 nautical miles. These voluntary actions helped reduce around 73 US tons of diesel particulate matter, as well as 740 US tons of SOx and 981 US tons of NOx emissions.
“We applaud our shipping and cruise lines for embracing our vision for a greener, cleaner port,” said Geraldine Knatz, executive director at the Port of Los Angeles “Our customers’ voluntary participation in these important emission reduction programs greatly contributes to better, healthier air quality in and around the San Pedro Bay.”
The port also honoured 12 ship carriers for their participation in the Environmental Ship Index (ESI), an international clean air programme that offers financial incentives to vessels who meet certain environmental and emission requirements.
Developed through the International Association of Ports and Harbors’ World Ports Climate Initiative, the ESI programme is also underway at several large European ports. It involves a web-based tool that tracks and rewards 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.