Decarbonisation report sets out challenges

The ‘Port Decarbonization Survey: Trends and Lessons Learned’ details some of the challenges that the country’s ports face, such as financial constraints, low technology readiness, and physical space limitations.

“AAPA intends to use this research to push for wise and realistic policies – with collaboration from public and private partners – towards an increasingly sustainable future for the port and maritime industry,” said Cary S. Davis, AAPA president and chief executive, adding that ports are already making rapid progress.

“Maritime is by its very nature a cleaner form of transportation,” he continued, “and this survey shows that various ports are already leading emissions mitigation efforts in alternative fuel and electrification options.”

ABS says it is involved in a number of global infrastructure projects, particularly around shore power and electrification of ports. “This report provides an important benchmark for ABS to understand the ability and interest in decarbonisation infrastructure at US ports,” said Panos Koutsourakis, ABS vice president, Global Sustainability.

Georgia Ports Authority said it was driving decarbonisation with initiatives such as the electrification of cargo-handling equipment.

“This report will help port staff across the country learn from their colleagues, and it will help policymakers understand what is needed to advance port decarbonisation,” said Tiffoni Buckle McCartney, Georgia Ports Authority manager of corporate sustainability and AAPA Environment Committee chair.