Seattle port endorses U.S. proposal on ocean vessel emissions

Seattle port endorses U.S. proposal on ocean vessel emissions The Port of Seattle's five-member policy-setting board on Tuesday endorsed the U.S. government's proposal for more stringent international rules for oceangoing vessels.
   The unanimous vote throws the port's support into the ring with other industry voices, including the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association, the World Shipping Council and the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency. The Port of Seattle is working with the ports of Tacoma and Vancouver, B.C. to develop a common set of standards for air emissions reductions in all three Northwest ports.
   Commission President John Creighton said that while local efforts — such as port efforts to convert to cleaner fuels, engines and operating practices — are necessary, environmental improvements have to happen on an international basis.
   'Changes of this sort will improve environmental conditions at ports all over the world,' Creighton said, 'and will make sure we all compete on a level playing field.'
   The U.S. recommendation to the International Maritime Organization calls for:
   * Strict new emission limits for particulate matter and oxides of sulfur, beginning in 2011 and 2012.
   * Limits for oxides of nitrogen to achieve a 15 percent to 25 percent reduction beginning in 2011, and further limits in certain areas to achieve 80 percent reductions beginning in 2016. These would apply to new engines.
   * Limits for oxides of nitrogen on engines built before Jan. 1, 2000 that would achieve a 20 percent reduction. These standards would phase in beginning in 2010 and 2012.