Long Beach going greener on cargo equipment, harbor craft

(LONG BEACH, Calif.) — The Port of Long Beach, a worldwide leader in sustainable supply chain operations, is launching two new incentive programs totaling $57.4 million to accelerate emissions reductions by supporting the purchase of zero-emissions cargo-handling equipment and cleaner harbor craft.

The funding is part of the System-Wide Investment in Freight Transport (SWIFT), a pioneering initiative funded by the California State Transportation Agency’s Port and Freight Infrastructure Program.

SWIFT is a transformative effort designed to support port modernization, enhance goods movement efficiency and reduce environmental impacts on neighboring communities.

A tugboat assists a containership to its berth at the Port of Long Beach in June 2024. Tim Rue/Bloomberg photo

“This program is all about making strides in operational efficiency and sustainability, rapidly and responsibly,” said Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero. “It is a reflection of not only our dedication to innovation but also our responsibility toward the community and the environment.”

“SWIFT is more than a program, it’s a promise to our community and to future generations,” Long Beach Harbor Commission President Bonnie Lowenthal said. “By accelerating the adoption of zero-emissions technologies, we are ensuring we provide immediate and lasting benefits to our port and our neighboring communities.”

This round of funding is evenly split between the Zero-Emission Terminal Transformation and Harbor Craft Business Continuity and Emission Reduction programs. Details on the funding:

• Zero-Emission Terminal Transformation Program: Allocates $28.7 million in incentives for purchasing zero-emission cargo-handling equipment and battery-electric CHE charging equipment. All cargo-handling equipment being tested must be manually operated.

• Commercial Harbor Craft Incentive Program: Provides another $28.7 million to support upgrades that meet advanced environmental standards for harbor craft.

A virtual informational workshop to learn more about this funding opportunity will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Thursday, March 13. Registration is required to attend. More information can be found www.polb.com/swift.

In 2025, the port is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Green Port Policy, which has led to aggressive, industry-leading programs to improve air and water quality, protect marine wildlife and implement sustainable practices. To learn more, visit www.polb.com/environment.

– Port of Long Beach

By Professional Mariner Staff