Oakland emissions plan proves costly

The Port of Oakland Truckers Association picketed on Monday and Tuesday to stress the need for financial help to enable them to meet new air quality rules which require that trucks used must have been built in 2007 or later to keep working.

Older trucks may be used only if upgraded at an approximate cost of US$80,000.

J Christopher Lytle, executive director of the port, said in a statement: “We have to put an end to the disruptions, which only hurt truckers, the port, and all of the businesses, workers and community who rely on this gateway.”

In a bid to prevent the truckers from interfering with the flow of workers and cargo through the marine terminal gates, the port obtained a Court Order prior to the picketing, but there were still disruptions, with terminals being only partially operational.

Mr Lytle stressed that the new clean-air rules have already been accepted by over two thirds of truckers and have helped reduce diesel emissions from port trucking by 88%.

With the Christmas period coming, the Port of Oakland says it needs to be faster and more productive as a gateway than ever.

“A real solution involves hard work and a focus on greater efficiency through Oakland so that we can grow business and revenue for all. If we don’t find a real solution together, we can expect more legislation, regulation, and public outcry trying to solve our problem for us,” Mr Lytle added.