Expanded Green Flag Program starts Jan. 1

A newly expanded version of the Port's Green Flag air quality program begins on New Year's Day, and cargo vessel operators are encouraged to start the fuel-saving, pollution-reducing slowdown as of January 1 or soon afterward to qualify for financial incentives from the Port.

The new Green Flag program builds on the success of the existing one, which in 2008 has seen more than 90 percent participation. To earn a Green Flag, ships voluntarily slow down to 12 knots within 20 nautical miles of Point Fermin throughout the year in order to qualify for discounted dockage fees the following year.

Ships as of January 1 will have the option of slowing down from 40 nautical miles away, increasing the amount of pollution reduced and qualifying for a much greater rebate. A 20-mile slowdown remains an option. Either way, to earn the rebate, shippers will need to get on board from the start.

"We encourage the shipping lines to participate in the expanded Green Flag program from Day One. That will make it easier to earn the rebate, and will greatly help us reduce air pollutants in the local community," said Don Snyder, Port of Long Beach Director of Trade Relations.

The Green Flag Vessel Speed Reduction Program eliminates hundreds of tons of smog-forming pollutants and diesel particulates each year. It also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and fuel consumption. The Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners earlier this month approved the expansion of the program to the 40-mile zone.

Source: Transportweekly