Port of Tacoma Commission was updated on the progress of the Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy at its June 18 meeting. The strategy was adopted in January 2008 in cooperation with Port Metro Vancouver and Port of Seattle, to reduce emissions in the Northwest over the next six years.
The strategy is outlined in the 2008 Implementation Report, which details emissions reduction activities already underway and progress made toward the 2010 goals, during the 2008 calendar year. The report establishes sector-based performance measures (goals) for two target years, 2010 and 2015.
Ron Stuart, environmental project manager for air control, is pleased with the port’s progress on the strategy, but realizes there is still more work to be done to reach port goals. He also commented on participation among the port’s business partners.
“It’s been wonderful to see the coordination in the terminal,” said Stuart. “Our partners have been proactively purchasing the equipment necessary to keep up with the changing technologies and environmental requirements.”
Port commissioners seemed pleased with the progress made so far, as well. Commissioner Dick Marzano commended Stuart and his staff on the ability to also work with other ports in achieving their goals.
“These programs with other ports are great and it reflects on everyone having a stake and a concern with what goes on in the environment,” said Marzano.
The port has allocated staff time to manage and facilitate the strategy programs and budgeted $100,000 of matching funds, as required by the Federal Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA) grant conditions. In 2008 and 2009, $1,700,000 in grants was secured from the DERA to modify current cargo handling equipment. In addition, there is $25,000 budgeted in 2009 for the Port of Tacoma Truck Program to assist in informational outreach and the semi-annual truck age verification studies.
Another Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy progress report will be issued in 2010 reflecting the efforts made in 2009 by the port and its partners.
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