Separate memorandums of understanding (MoUs) have been signed between the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Tokyo, and the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Yokohama that will see the ports collaborating on sustainability and environmental issues.
The ports will share best practices on environmental and sustainability initiatives, including the digitalization of the supply chain to optimize efficiency and reduce port operational impacts.
Additionally, the ports of Tokyo and Yokohama have agreed to establish a Green Shipping Corridor (GSC) partnership with the Port of Los Angeles in 2023. The aim of this project is to reduce emissions along trade routes while promoting low- and zero-carbon vessels and fuels.
The partners will also conduct the testing and deployment of zero-emission vehicles, cargo handling equipment and vessels, in addition to evaluating energy use and alternative energy sources. The ports will also collaborate on pollution-reduction technologies for terminals, vessels and drayage trucks.
The agreements were signed during the 2023 California Japan Clean Energy Trade Mission by Port of Los Angeles officials led by California lieutenant governor Eleni Kounalakis, and Dee Dee Myers, director of California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.
“The MoUs signed this week between the Port of Los Angeles, the Port of Tokyo and the Port of Yokohama epitomize the strong relationship between California and Japan and our shared commitment to tackling climate change,” said Kounalakis. “California and Japan’s port partnership is a world-leading collaboration and a critical step toward achieving zero greenhouse gas emissions.”
“Global cooperation is critical if we are to make meaningful progress toward a cleaner and more sustainable maritime industry,” said Gene Seroka, executive director of the Port of Los Angeles. “The Port of Los Angeles is proud of the role it has played in advancing port-related environmental technologies and supply chain decarbonization solutions, but we can do so much more with ports and other international stakeholders working together. I’m thrilled to be in Japan collaborating with our long-time partners at the ports of Tokyo and Yokohama. ”
“The Port of Los Angeles is our largest partner in Japan, and the work to decarbonize shipping is very important to both ports,” said Shinya Hitomi, president and CEO of Yokohama-Kawasaki International Port Corporation. “This agreement is a significant step forward as we work toward a common goal.”
“This action strengthens our fruitful relationship and will further enhance the sustainability and development of our ports,” added Toshiki Yaoka, director general of the Port of Tokyo.
