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Within the next few years, only the cleanest cargo-delivery trucks will be operating at the Port of Long Beach.
The Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners has approved a progressive ban on old, dirty diesel trucks from serving the Port starting in October, 2008. The five-year program will slash air pollution from short-haul (or "drayage") trucks by 80 percent.
The Commission’s action sets up a schedule to phase out older trucks in favor of clean diesel or alternative fuel trucks.
By October, trucks built before 1989 – the most polluting trucks on the road – will no longer be allowed inside Port terminals. By January 1, 2012, all trucks entering Port terminals must meet federal EPA’s tough 2007 clean trucks standards. Trucks must be equipped with electronic ID tags to verify that their engine meets the stricter air quality requirements.
Drayage trucks account for about 25 percent of port-related air pollution. The Port met extensively with trucking firms, truck drivers, environmental organizations and other partners to gather ideas while developing the program.
"This truck program is a major step forward for cleaner air," said Port Executive Director Richard D. Steinke. "Getting these old, dirty trucks off the road will deliver major air quality improvements for the entire region."
The Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners adopted a similar tariff, so the tougher standards will apply throughout the San Pedro Bay.
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