Air pollution at the Port of Los Angeles dropped 24% in 2023, and greenhouse gas emissions released by cargo movement also declined by 34%, one of the largest reductions since such data-tracking began in 2005, the Port of Los Angeles announced Friday.
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According to an annual report on air emissions, the decrease in pollution can be attributed to a transition away from diesel and fossil fuels to green energy such as electric and solar power, as well as improvements in cargo operations.
The 2023 Inventory of Air Emissions showed that diesel particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur oxides from ships, trains, trucks, harbor craft and off-road terminal equipment decreased by 24%, 29% and 40%, respectively. Compared to 2005, diesel particulate matter, nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides levels decreased by 91%, 74% and 98%.
Port officials said the report tracks their progress in reducing air pollution from all equipment that transports cargo through their facilities. Diesel particulate matter is a toxic contaminant and known carcinogen, while nitrogen and sulfur oxides are key components of smog. Greenhouse gases, or carbon dioxide, plays a significant part in global warming, the report states.
"To put this data in perspective, we are down to the last 9% of diesel particulate matter and the last 2% of sulfur oxides from anything with an engine that moves cargo through our gateway," Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka said in a statement.
"While what remains of these and other pollutants are the toughest to eliminate, we continue to partner with all our stakeholders to drive emissions down to zero," he added.
Regional, state and federal air regulatory agencies review the findings of the report before its release.
The Port of Los Angeles is working toward meeting its goals of transitioning all cargo handling equipment to zero emissions by 2030, and all drayage trucks by 2035. Officials hope to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 40% below 1990 levels by 2030, and 80% below 1990 levels by 2050, which are aligned with California's objectives.
"We continue to build on our longstanding strategies to improve the health and welfare of all who live and work in our port community," L.A. Harbor Commission President Lucille Roybal-Allard said in a statement. "Keep in mind, the benefits of what we accomplish here extend to our state, our nation and communities around the globe."
As greenhouse gas emissions are a global issue, the port works alongside partners such as the ports of Long Beach, Shanghai and Singapore on international initiatives to decarbonize vessels and establish green shipping corridors.
In 2006, the port approved its San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan, which laid out goals and strategies to address air pollution. The document was updated in 2010 and 2017, adding more measures and clean air targets.
Port officials said they have "consistently met and exceeded" goals under the plan in recent years.
"This news is a step in the right direction as we continue our momentum toward building a greener Los Angeles, which is possible by locking arms with industry and those who work at the port each and everyday," L.A. Mayor Karen Bass said in a statement.
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