We will seek to work
with the Port Authority to reduce emissions from the
Port's marine vehicles, port facilities, and airports
Airports and port-related equipment contribute substantially
to our local emissions: 11% of particulate matter and
23% of our locally-generated NOX come from these sources.
This infrastructure is largely controlled by the Port
Authority. We will seek to partner with them to position
the region's ports as environmental leaders by developing
a comprehensive air quality and greenhouse gas emissions
plan.
Possibilities for improvements at airports include
the use of electric plug-ins at gate ports, clean auxiliary
power units, or towing to move planes to and from the
gate. The Federal Aviation Administration operates a
program to reduce emissions at airports and could be
a source of funding for these initiatives.
Progress (as of 4/22/08):
The City has met with the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) to explore its nation-wide Port Initiative,
funding sources, and opportunities for reducing the
Port Authority of New York and New Jersey's emissions
(PANYNJ). DOT has teamed up with EPA and PANYNJ to bring
a national conference called Faster Freight Cleaner
Air to New York City on July 8-9. This conference explores
options for reducing pollution for Ports and their related
activities. In addition, the City will actively participate
in meetings on port issues convened by the EPA and including
PANYNJ, NYS DEC, and New Jersey. |