The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded US$322 million to the Port of Oakland to accelerate its transition to nearly 100% zero-emissions cargo operations.
The Californian port’s ambitious and community-driven proposal, titled “Community Led, Business Supported, Proven and Ready to Go! Transforming the Port of Oakland to Zero Emissions,” represents a historic investment in green initiatives at the seaport. Together with contributions from the Port and local partners, this federal funding will mobilize approximately half a billion dollars toward reducing emissions.
“The Clean Ports grant from the U.S. EPA is a major environmental victory,” noted Michael Colbruno, President of the Port of Oakland Board.
This grant is the largest federal allocation ever for a Bay Area program targeting emissions reductions from seaport cargo activities. It will fund 663 pieces of zero-emissions equipment, including 475 drayage trucks and 188 cargo handling units.
The US port collaborated extensively with project partners and community groups to design a robust zero-emissions strategy that gained support from elected officials, community leaders from West and East Oakland, industry stakeholders, labour representatives, regulatory bodies, and non-profit organizations.
