Port of San Francisco Air Emissions Significantly Down

Air emissions from the Port of San Francisco’s maritime operations have decreased sharply over the past eight years, according to a recent study being released by the Port.

The study compared maritime air emissions inventoried for 2013 to those inventoried for 2005. The comparison shows that annual particulate matter (PM10) emissions, primarily produced by diesel engines and of concern due to direct health effects, have been reduced by more than half (57%).

In addition to the direct comparison of 2013 to 2005, an estimate of additional emission reductions due to shoreside power was made. The 2013 inventory does not reflect the contributions of shoreside power at Pier 27 or Pier 70.  An estimate of the additional effects of shoreside power at Pier 27 and Pier 70 indicates that now, in 2014, PM10 emissions likely have been reduced 61% from 2005.

“As a result of our partnership with the Mayor’s Office, the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, the U.S. EPA, and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, the Port is able to again demonstrate San Francisco’s commitment to improving the environment while promoting a healthy business climate,” said Monique Moyer, Port Executive Director. “This is a win-win for our local communities and the entire Bay Area.”

The reductions are the result of shifts to cleaner fuels for ocean-going vessels and newer, cleaner-burning engines in tug boats and ferries, as well as the Port’s $10 million investment in shoreside power at two piers. Further reductions are expected in the future as even cleaner maritime fuels and engines are required and as shoreside power usage increases at the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal at Pier 27 and at the shipyard at Pier 70. The Port will quantify these additional reductions in its next air emissions inventory.

“Maritime particulate matter emissions are down about 25 tons per year,” said Jay Ach, the Port’s Maritime Manager of Regulatory and Environmental Affairs. “This is roughly the equivalent of taking a land-based power plant offline.”

Reductions in other air pollutants include a 23% reduction in nitrogen oxides (NOx) and an 85% reduction in sulfur oxides (SOx).

Shoreside power is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 6,000 tons of CO2 equivalents per year.