Introduction to Clean Truck Goals
The public is invited to comment on a 2024 draft feasibility assessment on cleaner drayage truck technologies needed to help the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach reduce air pollution in efforts to meet 2017 Clean Air Action Plan goals. Comments will be accepted through July 17.
Background on Feasibility Assessments
Previous assessments were conducted in 2018 and 2021. The studies examine the current state of technology, operational characteristics, economic considerations, infrastructure availability, and commercial readiness related to zero-emissions drayage trucks.
Providing Comments on the Draft Assessment
Comments on the 2024 draft feasibility assessment for drayage trucks can be emailed to caap@cleanairactionplan.org.
Goals of the Clean Air Action Plan
The 2017 CAAP established goals to get to an entirely zero-emissions truck fleet by 2035 and zero-emissions terminal equipment by 2030. As part of this strategy, the ports committed to developing feasibility assessments every three years for drayage trucks and terminal equipment to inform the ports’ approach to meeting those goals.
Initiatives to Support Zero-Emissions Transition
To support the transition to a zero-emissions drayage truck fleet, the ports implemented the Clean Truck Fund Rate, collecting $10 per twenty-foot equivalent unit from diesel trucks calling at the ports. Collection began on April 1, 2022, and funding is made available through the nonprofit Calstart to help incentivize the purchase of zero-emission drayage trucks.
Partnerships for Zero-Emission Freight Movement
The ports have also partnered with state and local agencies, such as the South Coast Air Quality Management District, Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review Committee, and California Air Resources Board to leverage additional funding for zero emission freight movement and accelerate regional deployment of zero-emission trucks and the necessary associated regional infrastructure using these funds.
Progress and Updates on the Clean Air Action Plan
Updated in 2017, the CAAP is a comprehensive strategy for accelerating progress toward a zero-emissions future while protecting and strengthening the ports’ competitive position in the global economy. Since 2005, port-related air pollution emissions in San Pedro Bay have dropped 91% for diesel particulate matter, 72% for nitrogen oxides, and 98% for sulfur oxides.
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets
Targets for reducing greenhouse gases from port-related sources were introduced as part of the 2017 CAAP. The document calls for the ports to reduce GHGs 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 and 80% below 1990 levels by 2050. The Clean Air Action Plan was originally approved in 2006.
Conclusion
The efforts by the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to reduce air pollution and meet the goals of the Clean Air Action Plan are significant steps towards a cleaner and healthier environment. By seeking public comment on the draft feasibility assessment and implementing various initiatives to support the transition to zero-emissions, the ports are demonstrating their commitment to reducing their environmental impact.
FAQs
- Q: What is the purpose of the 2024 draft feasibility assessment?
A: The purpose is to examine the current state of technology, operational characteristics, economic considerations, infrastructure availability, and commercial readiness related to zero-emissions drayage trucks. - Q: How can I provide comments on the draft assessment?
A: Comments can be emailed to caap@cleanairactionplan.org. - Q: What are the goals of the Clean Air Action Plan regarding zero-emissions?
A: The goals are to have an entirely zero-emissions truck fleet by 2035 and zero-emissions terminal equipment by 2030. - Q: What initiatives have been implemented to support the transition to zero-emissions?
A: Initiatives include the Clean Truck Fund Rate and partnerships with state and local agencies to leverage funding for zero-emission freight movement.
