Ports generate heavy air pollution from ships and trucks, but efforts like electrification and carbon capture technologies offer potential ways to reduce emissions and improve local health.
Jamie Hailstone reports for Forbes.
In short:
- Ships idling at ports and diesel trucks release large amounts of harmful pollutants, impacting workers and nearby communities.
- Electrification of ships and carbon capture systems could significantly reduce emissions, with companies like NatPower Marine and Carbon Ridge leading these innovations.
- Many low-income communities near ports are disproportionately affected by the pollution, which has been linked to serious health issues like cardiovascular disease.
Key quote:
“These chemicals can lead to cardiovascular disease as well as damage to the lungs themselves.”
— Dr. Afif El-Hasan, pediatrician at Kaiser Permanente
Why this matters:
Port pollution harms nearby communities, often low-income, causing health problems from exposure to diesel exhaust and other toxins. Developing cleaner maritime technologies could dramatically cut emissions and improve public health.
Related coverage: Environmental group sues Port of Los Angeles over water pollution
