WASHINGTON – This week, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that they would approve the majority of California’s updates to their Commercial Harbor Craft Regulation. In 2022, the California Air Resources Board amended the state’s Commercial Harbor Craft Rule to reduce toxic emissions from commercial harbor craft, including tugboats and other regulated vessels, and has been awaiting a waiver from the EPA to enforce the rule. This regulation will pave the way to a zero-emission future for harbor craft and improve air quality for millions of Californians. Caroline Bonfield, Ocean Conservancy’s U.S. policy manager for shipping emissions, issued the following statement in response to the news:

“We commend the EPA for their decision to approve a majority of California’s updates to the Commercial Harbor Craft Regulation. Harbor craft– like tugboats, ferries, barges and dredges –  are one of the largest sources of toxic diesel pollution for Californians living near ports, and among the top three sources of cancer risk for these communities.  

“The California Air Resources Board estimated that the complete rule updates could save hundreds of lives and save Californians over $5.25 billion dollars in potential healthcare costs associated with poor air quality by 2038. This regulation is a necessary step to reduce toxic emissions that harm the health of our ocean and the health of people in portside communities. Now more than ever, we hope that this action from California can serve as a model for other states as we work to clean up the shipping industry.”

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Ocean Conservancy envisions a healthier ocean, protected by a more just world. Ocean Conservancy is working to protect the ocean from today’s greatest global challenges. Together with our partners, we create evidence-based solutions for a healthy ocean and the wildlife and communities that depend on it. For more information, visit oceanconservancy.org, or follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) or Instagram.