Towards accelerating the adoption of zero emissions cargo handling technologies in California ports: Lessons learned from the case of the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach

There is a growing global trend towards achieving net-zero emissions of greenhouse gases from port operations as consumers and governments become increasingly aware of the impacts of global climate change and ongoing environmental justice issues. However, the existing literature on the topic of zero-emissions ports is broad-based and focuses mainly on technology feasibility. Specifically, it provides insufficient guidance on how ports can best transition to zero emissions. To address this research gap, this review article examines the ongoing zero-emissions planning documents and demonstration projects at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach and presents the key lessons learned from those efforts to accelerate the adoption of zero-emissions cargo handling equipment in California. Increasingly, the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are emerging as leaders with a sustainable circular strategy by implementing zero-emissions cargo handling equipment projects at a higher rate than any other ports in California, making these two ports an ideal case study to evaluate their endeavors to transition their operations to zero emissions. The findings of this review study suggest that transitioning to zero-emissions cargo handling equipment across all California ports by 2035 is best achievable with: 1) a stronger collaboration between all key stakeholders, 2) the development of statewide regulations, 3) accelerated technology commercialization through increased demonstration projects and infrastructure standardization, 4) improved funding processes, 5) enhanced workforce training, and 6) increased resiliency planning. Although this evaluation and recommendations are largely California-specific, this article can be useful to policy-and decision-makers around the world for transitioning to sustainable, net-zero emissions ports.