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Federal Funding Targets Reduction of Carbon Emissions and Air Pollution at US Ports

Raquel Garcia battles air pollution near Detroit, while $3 billion in EPA grants aim to clean ports and improve air quality.
An aerial view of the Ambassador Bridge that connects Detroit and Windsor, Canada. Credit: Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

Raquel Garcia has long advocated for cleaner air in her neighborhood southwest of downtown Detroit. Living just over a mile from the Ambassador Bridge, she and her neighbors regularly clean soot from their homes.

“You can literally write your name in it,” Garcia remarked. “My house is completely covered.”

The area, part of Wayne County, hosts heavy industries like steel plants and major car manufacturers, suffering from some of Michigan’s worst air quality. The American Lung Association’s 2024 State of the Air report lists Wayne County among the worst in the U.S. for fine particulate matter pollution, or PM2.5.

Air quality in Detroit and other Midwest port cities could soon improve as ports receive substantial funding to replace diesel equipment with cleaner technologies. The Biden administration announced $3 billion in grants from the EPA’s Clean Ports program to reduce emissions at U.S. shipping ports. Over $200 million will be allocated to Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, and Indiana ports along the Great Lakes.

Funds from the Inflation Reduction Act will finance new clean energy systems, charging stations, and a study for a green hydrogen fuel hub. The EPA estimates a nationwide carbon reduction of over 3 million metric tons in 10 years, equating to removing 600,000 gasoline vehicles from roads. Nitrous oxide and PM2.5 emissions are expected to drop by about 10,000 and 180 metric tons, respectively.

“Delivering cleaner technologies to U.S. ports will slash harmful air and climate pollution,” said EPA Administrator Michael Regan.

Garcia, leading the nonprofit Southwest Detroit Environmental Vision, expressed excitement over the funding, although she noted more is needed to tackle Detroit’s air pollution.

Jumpstarting the Transition to Cleaner Technology

Port authorities in 27 states, including the Midwest, will use the Clean Ports funds for more than 1,500 units of cargo equipment and vehicles powered by electricity or green hydrogen. Illinois and Ohio received about $95 million each, Michigan’s Detroit-Wayne County Port Authority got $25 million, and the Ports of Indiana received $500,000.

Mark Schrupp, executive director of the Detroit-Wayne County Port Authority, stated the funds will help purchase electric forklifts, cranes, and boat motors. A solar array and 11 charging stations will reduce energy consumption.

“This money aids businesses in investing in clean technology, which is often costlier than diesel equipment,” Schrupp explained. The new equipment is expected to cut the port’s carbon emissions by over 8,600 metric tons annually, a 30% reduction.

Carly Beck of the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority reported a projected 1,000 metric ton reduction in annual carbon emissions, about 40% of the port’s emissions. Funds will also support electric tug boats and solar panel installations.

In 2022, the Port of Cleveland’s emissions inventory identified major emissions sources as cargo equipment, energy use, and idling ships. The new infrastructure will allow cargo-handling and ships to draw power from a 2-megawatt solar system.

Improving the Air for Disadvantaged Communities

Clean Ports funding will benefit residents like Garcia living near U.S. ports. Diesel pollution disproportionately affects low-income communities of color. Nearly all census tracts near Midwest ports are deemed “disadvantaged” by federal criteria.

About 10,000 trucks pass through the Port of Detroit daily, contributing to poor air quality in Southwest Detroit and nearby cities like Ecorse and River Rouge.

“We have about 50,000 residents near the port, so these communities will benefit,” Schrupp noted. The new port equipment will cut nearly 9 metric tons of PM2.5 and about 120 metric tons of nitrous oxide annually.

Garcia is also pleased that some grants will support workforce training programs for new technology, offering career opportunities in her rapidly gentrifying area.

Beck added that Cleveland’s port is surrounded by heavy industry, with adjacent census tracts classified as “disadvantaged.”

“We’re striving to be good neighbors and enhance the environment,” she said.

Original Story at insideclimatenews.org

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

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Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



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