Air Action Program
Port Metro Vancouver is leading the way for other ports to address air quality and climate change, by focusing on the use of technologies and the promotion of operational efficiencies to reduce air emissions. Our Air Action Program works to reduce emissions now and as we grow to help maintain good air quality for the future.
Some key components of our Air Action Program include:
EcoAction Program
Our EcoAction Program promotes attainable emissions reduction goals for ocean-going vessels that enter our Port, and rewards those who excel in environmental stewardship. In 2010, we launched the Blue Circle Award for the EcoAction Program for Shipping, a user-friendly financial incentive for shipping lines that reduce emissions of their ocean-going vessels.
Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy
Port Metro Vancouver is working with the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma to address port-related contributions to air quality and climate change in the Georgia Basin Puget Sound air shed through the Northwest Port's Clean Air Strategy. We also collaborate with national and international stakeholders to ensure the programs in place have a lasting effect.
Port Metro Vancouver Land Side Air Emissions Inventory
Port Metro Vancouver led the development of a port landside emissions inventory of common air contaminants, greenhouse gases with support from Environment Canada and Metro Vancouver. This Phase One report includes emissions from cargo-handling equipment, trucks and rail along Burrard Inlet and Roberts Bank.
Environmental Requirements Through the Truck Licensing Program
Starting in 2008 we introduced increasingly stringent environmental requirements into the Container Truck Licensing Program (TLS). Requirements focus on the phasing out of older trucks, mandatory opacity and idling limits and an awareness program. Consistent with the Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy, the requirements will bring the fleet up to the equivalent of a 2007 truck for particulate matter emissions.
Did you know?
Our various emissions reduction programs have attracted international acclaim. We received the GLOBE 2010 ecoFREIGHT Award for Sustainable.
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