Seattle's port is making a strong push for environmental sustainability by requiring all homeported cruise ships to use shore power by 2027, moving up their original goal from 2030. This change aims to cut emissions and promote cleaner energy use in the maritime sector.
The Port of Seattle, established in 1911, is a key hub for both maritime and aviation activities in the Pacific Northwest. It includes Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Fishermen’s Terminal, and several cruise ship terminals and piers, such as Pier 91 and Pier 66. The port plays a crucial role in the local economy, supporting nearly 200,000 jobs and generating significant revenue.
Even when docked, cruise ships often use their diesel generators for power, which leads to substantial greenhouse gas emissions and particulate matter. This not only affects local air quality but also contributes to global climate issues. The Port of Seattle initially aimed to have all homeported cruise ships use shore power by 2030, as part of the Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy—a joint effort with other regional ports to reduce emissions and promote sustainable practices.
Seeing the urgent need to reduce environmental impacts and taking advantage of major investments from the cruise industry and port infrastructure, the Port of Seattle Commission decided to move the target date up to 2027. This decision shows the port's strong commitment to environmental sustainability, with a long-term vision of achieving zero-emission operations by 2050. Shore power allows ships to turn off their diesel engines while docked and plug into the port's clean electricity grid. This can reduce diesel emissions by up to 80%, significantly improving air quality and supporting broader climate action efforts.
Seattle's main goal with this mandate is to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from cruise ship operations. By using shore power, ships can significantly cut diesel emissions while docked, which aligns with Seattle's broader commitment to enhancing local air quality and addressing climate change.
The initiative gained traction with a new 10-year agreement with Carnival Corp., a major player in the cruise industry. This deal not only ensures that Carnival will use shore power at Pier 91 but also encourages other cruise companies to use these facilities.
Scientists and engineers played a key role in supporting Seattle's shore power mandate. Their research showed the environmental benefits, and their expertise was crucial in implementing the necessary infrastructure upgrades. The initiative required significant investments in both the ships and the facilities at the port, highlighting the collaborative efforts of technical experts and policymakers.
This collaborative approach highlights Seattle's strategy to leverage private sector partnerships to achieve its sustainability goals while also boosting local economic development.
Currently, the port is in the final stages of electrifying Pier 66, with completion expected by the upcoming summer season. Once this upgrade is finished, all three of Seattle's cruise berths will be equipped with shore power, allowing the port to meet its regional clean air targets ahead of schedule.
Research cited by port officials shows significant environmental benefits from using shore power. During the 2023 cruise season, using shore power helped prevent the emission of 2,700 metric tons of greenhouse gases and 0.75 metric tons of diesel particulate matter. This reduction is comparable to taking nearly 650 passenger cars off the road for a year, showing the immediate positive impact on local air quality and public health.
Seattle's forward-thinking approach sets a valuable precedent for ports worldwide. Currently, less than 2% of the world's cruise ports offer shore power, mainly due to high initial costs, technical challenges, operational disruptions, and economic considerations. However, initiatives like Seattle's are expected to encourage broader adoption. The Cruise Lines International Association notes that around 20 additional ports globally plan to electrify at least one berth by 2025, potentially increasing the share of cruise ports with shore power to about 3%.
Seattle's case offers several key lessons for ports worldwide:
Seattle's mandate for all homeported cruise ships to use shore power by 2027 is a prime example of proactive environmental stewardship and strategic planning in port management. By showcasing the feasibility and benefits of shore power, Seattle not only improves local air quality and reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also positions itself as a global leader in sustainable maritime operations. The city's efforts serve as a compelling example for other ports to follow, inspiring broader adoption of sustainable practices in the maritime industry worldwide.
Moreover, Seattle's initiative demonstrates the pivotal role local governments and agencies can play in promoting sustainable maritime operations. By collaborating with industry leaders and investing in infrastructure, these entities can significantly reduce emissions and set a precedent for other coastal communities. The efforts of the Port of Seattle, supported by entities such as the Port of Seattle Commission and regional environmental agencies, highlight how local actions can inspire broader adoption of clean technologies in the maritime industry.
