Collaborative efforts cut emissions, improve air quality at Port of L.A.

The Port of Los Angeles has recognized 28 shipping lines for their participation in its Vessel Speed Reduction Program (VSRP), an incentive program for vessel operators who reduce their speed as they approach or depart the port, officials said today.

Vessel speed reduction has cut harmful emissions in San Pedro Bay for nearly 20 years, according to Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka. Under the VSRP, companies voluntarily slow down to 12 knots as they approach or depart the San Pedro Bay port complex, receiving incentives for doing so within 20 nautical miles and 40 nautical miles from Point Fermin, officials said.

Last year, 174 companies participated in the VSRP, with more than 3,000 combined vessel calls that helped decrease emissions from ocean-going vessels. Nearly 600 ships attained the 100 percent VSRP compliance within the 20 and 40 nautical mile zone, officials said.

Shipping companies recognized for their participation in 2018 include: Chevron; CMA CGM; COSCO; Evergreen Marine; Grieg Star Shipping A/S; Gulf Energy Maritime Gem; Hapag-Lloyd; Hyundai Merchant Marine; Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha; Maersk; Mitsui O.S.K.; MSC; Navig8; Nippon Yusen Kaisha; Nissan Motor Car Carrier; Ocean Network Express; Orient Overseas Container Line; OSG Ship Management; Pacific Basin Shipping; Pacific International; Panamax International; Saga Welco; Tokyo Marine Asia; TORM; Valero; Wan Hai; World Logistics Service; and Yang Ming.