Emissions incentive programme

The Environmental Incentive Programme for Vessels (EIPV) considers environmental certification, fuel quality, technological implementation and management practices. Visiting ships can apply to qualify for one of three tier levels based on environmental performance.

“This programme is an example of the innovative policies and procedures that are helping preserve the ecological integrity of our harbour and which contribute to a ‘greener’ industry,” said Don Krusel, president and CEO, Prince Rupert Port Authority.

It offers discounted harbour dues of up to 50% to commercial vessels that implement emission reduction measures or other environmental practices.

“By offering financial incentives to shippers making a conscious effort to become more environmentally sensitive, we can motivate commercial vessel traffic to adopt more sustainable shipping practices,” Mr Krusel added.

The Port of Prince Rupert’s vessel, COSCO Prince Rupert, became the first ship to take advantage of the programme on 3 July 2013.

For the duration of 2013, the port authority’s EIPV will use the Environmental Ship Index (ESI) as the method to qualify for discounts.

The ESI identifies ships whose emissions are below those required by the standards of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), proving a general indication of the world’s cleaner ships.

The PRPA says the programme will be broadened in 2014 to include additional qualification criteria.