Clean Port USA

Trucks are not the only thing affected by the Environmental Protection Agency’s clean air act. Ports are also taking responsibility for their part in impacting the environment. Heavy freight equipment, trucks, tugboats, ferries, and ships promote sulfur oxide, and nitrogen oxide in emissions. The ports have taken aggressive action to promote lower emissions rates and cleaner burning devices in order to protect the environment.

Several steps have been taken that will help ensure a cleaner environment over the next several years. These include: 1) tracking emissions inventory to see if changes are making a positive impact, 2) instituting anti-idling policies, 3) educational programs for terminal operators and fleet owners about air quality, air pollutants, improvements in technology, and opportunities for grants through local and state agencies that will help owner operators meet EPA regulations, 4) extending terminal gats hours to reduce truck idling and traffic congestion, 5) substituting electric power for diesel power, and 6) sub-rails which equals less congestion.

Third party logistics / warehouse facilities will be impacted by these new regulations, because many companies will not have the resources to comply with the new regulations. This will provide new opportunities for warehouse transportation services to provide the added service that some clients may not be able to provide.

Fortunately, there are grants available for regional, state and local government agencies, as well as certain non-profits that are eligible. If you are unable to afford to make the changes needed to comply with the new EPA regulations, then look for grant assistance for the National Clean Diesel Campaign Grants and Funds programs.