The Port of San Diego’s Maritime Clean Air Strategy (MCAS), adopted in 2021, demonstrates leadership within the maritime industry to decarbonize operations through the acceleration of zero-emission (ZE) technologies. Over $227 million has been committed by the Port and its partners to date, advancing sustainability through 34 targeted initiatives that align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including: 3 Good Health and Well-being, 7 Affordable and Clean Energy, 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities, 13 Climate Action, and 17 Partnerships for the Goals.
The MCAS has driven significant impact since 2021 through the following achievements:
- 25% of the Port’s Class 1 and 2 fleet are ZE (SDG 13).
- 50% of Dole’s cargo handling equipment is ZE, with an additional 52 pieces of equipment and vehicles committed by Dole, SSA Marine, and The Pasha Group by 2028 (SDG 9).
- The Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal Microgrid, powered by a 700-kilowatt solar array and 2,700-kilowatt-hour battery, has reduced energy costs by over 50% while enhancing terminal resiliency (SDGs 7, 9).
As a port of firsts, the Port deployed North America’s first all-electric mobile harbor cranes and Crowley launched the first U.S. all-electric tugboat, cutting diesel emissions and enhancing operational capacity and efficiency (SDGs 9, 13). Shore power infrastructure is reducing oceangoing vessel emissions from cruise and container ships, with additional capability for roll-on/roll-off cargo coming in spring 2025 (SDG 3).
The MCAS is driven by leadership and inclusiveness, with increased contributions (from 2% to 4% of maritime revenue) funding local air quality projects. Over 1,000 community members have been engaged through 25+ outreach events, reinforcing equity and transparency (SDGs 11, 17). Through innovation, measurable outcomes, and inclusive partnerships, the implementation of the MCAS defines how ports can lead the global maritime decarbonization transition.