Port of Seattle Commissioners agreed this week to quicken efforts to lower port-related emissions by a decade, moving up its goal of achieving net zero or better by 2040.
Port officials also agreed to speed up and broaden the port’s goal to be carbon neutral or better by 2050 on emissions from industries running at port facilities.
The actions coincided with the Conference of Parties 26 meeting in Glasgow and the global urgency for climate action, said Port Commission President Fred Felleman.
“Along with our partners at the Northwest Seaport Alliance, we’re making significant investments in green infrastructure, such as shore power, to enable our tenants to meet their climate goals as well,” he said. “As a public port, these investments are not just the right thing to do, but they also give us a competitive advantage because businesses are increasingly seeking ways to reduce their emissions.”
The port is also leaning into decarbonization efforts. It plans to take part in new studies exploring renewable hydrogen as a potential source for vehicle and maritime fuel and partner with local public utility Seattle City Light and the NWSA on waterfront electrification.
“New technologies and infrastructure are the foundation of a clean energy economy,” said Port Commissioner Sam Cho. “We’re helping our region make clean energy investments that will address climate change and bring health and environmental benefits to our communities faster.”
