Environment: Baltimore

Baltimore Inbound Logistics Names the Port a Green Supply Chain Partner

Inbound Logistics magazine has named the Port of Baltimore a "Green Supply Chain Partner" for its environmental efforts and specifically for the port’s dray truck replacement program.

The recognition came as Maryland Port Administration (MPA)’s Environmental Management System was re-certified under the International Organization for Standardization’s new Environmental Management standard, which focuses on leadership, proactive initiatives to protect the environment, and communications strategy. MPA owns and manages the Baltimore’s six public marine terminals.

Using funds from a Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) grant obtained through the U.S. Department of the Environment, more than 170 older dray trucks that move cargo at the Port of Baltimore have been replaced in recent months with newer clean diesel dray trucks. These upgrades improve overall fuel efficiency and reduce harmful pollutants.

The DERA grant also funds exhaust system upgrades or diesel engine replacements on up to 26 pieces of cargo-handling equipment, such as forklifts and yard tractors. Automatic stop-start anti-idling devices are being installed on locomotives to move rail cars that come through the port.

MPA has shown a commitment to the environment over the years on numerous projects. As part of the Dredge Material Management Program, MPA uses sediment dredged from the shipping channels that lead to the Port of Baltimore to restore wetlands and eroding islands, including Maryland’s Poplar and Hart-Miller islands.

At Masonville Cove, on the Patapsco River, MPA cleaned and restored a shoreline that was severely polluted by decades of industrial activity.

MPA also works with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to restore the bay’s depleted stock of native oysters.

This May, the MPA will host the GreenPort Congress – an international conference of maritime professionals that will focus on environmental initiatives and developments.