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Prince Rupert port recognizes sustainable shipping

Vessels scored on air emission control and underwater noise reduction
Prince Rupert port

The Prince Rupert Port Authority is recognizing five companies – COSCO, Maersk, and BC Ferries, Ocean Network Express and Pacific Basin – for participation in its environmental incentive program in 2019.

The authority’s Green Wave program rewards shippers by offering discounted harbour fees to vessel owners voluntarily investing in sustainable practices. Commercial vessels are scored on air emission control and underwater noise reduction measures and allotted savings.

One mechanism for program inclusion is RightShip’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) Rating. In 2019, 20 per cent of vessels calling in Prince Rupert qualified for Green Wave through the RightShip GHG Rating criteria. As a result, the port said, 5,020 tonnes of GHG emissions were avoided.

The port said recognizing environmental stewardship and reducing the impacts of a growing port are key to sustainability. The port believes incentives encourage vessel owners to further embrace safer environmental practices.

The program began in 2012 and continues to adapt criteria to address port sustainability goals and raise the bar for vessel eligibility.

jhainsworth@glaciermedia.ca

@Jhainswo