Exhaust-Sucking Barges Slash Ship Emissions in Port
STAX Engineering, based in Long Beach, California, has experienced significant growth since launching its innovative emissions capture and control technology earlier this year. Available as a land- or barge-based solution, the company’s mobile, flexible exhaust capture system is designed to fit all ships without modification, removing 99% of particulate matter (PM) and 95% of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from all exhaust funneled into its system before the exhaust is released as purified gas. The idea for the solution comes from seasoned inventor and engineer Bob Sharp, STAX Engineering founder and CTO. “He had the vision for a mobile emissions capture and control system that could modernize existing infrastructure for a cleaner future,” said Mike Walker, STAX Engineering CEO. “His technical expertise laid the foundation for the company’s core technology.” Facing stricter emissions regulations and growing market pressure to reduce its environmental impact, the maritime industry has become a primary focus for Stax. California in particular presents a significant opportunity due to its regulations aimed at improving air quality and public health by minimizing pollution from docked ships. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) 2020 At-Berth Regulation mandates that oceangoing vessels at California ports reduce emissions by using shore power, emissions containment devices or cleaner fuels while at berth. “We realized the industry couldn’t wait for long