Clean Ports Program

EPA Clean Ports Program Background

The EPA Clean Ports Program is a major federal effort launched by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to help America’s ports reduce air pollution and plan for cleaner, more sustainable freight operations. The program supports climate and air quality planning at ports across the country and reflects a nationwide commitment to improving public health, protecting the environment, and fostering cleaner freight transportation. The Clean Ports Program builds on earlier EPA ports initiatives and represents one of the largest investments ever made specifically to address emissions from port operations.

Louisiana’s ports are vital engines of commerce, moving goods domestically and across the globe, though they also face air quality and environmental challenges due to diesel-powered equipment, vehicles, and vessels that operate around busy terminals. The Clean Ports Program helps communities and port stakeholders understand and plan for long-term emissions reductions while positioning ports to compete in a low-emission economy.

Click Here For More About The EPA Clean Ports Initiative

Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Grant

In 2024, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD) was selected to receive a $2,999,889 Clean Ports Program grant through EPA’s Climate and Air Quality Planning Competition.

This award will support statewide planning efforts focused on Louisiana’s 32 ports, creating a coordinated approach toward emissions reduction and clean port development.

The Louisiana planning project will:

Establish a baseline of power use and carbon footprint across ports in the state
Develop strategies for progressing toward carbon neutrality
Integrate community engagement into port decision-making
Advance resiliency planning for extreme weather and climate impacts
Support workforce development activities to ensure local workers can participate in and benefit from future clean technology transitions

This comprehensive planning grant builds a foundation for future investments, not only in new technologies but also in the policies, partnerships, and community relationships that will shape a cleaner, more resilient port system for Louisiana.

Impact for Louisiana Ports

The Clean Ports Program grant positions Louisiana to lead on environmental planning for freight and maritime operations in the Gulf region. By developing a clear picture of emissions and energy use across the state’s major ports, the project opens doors for future funding opportunities, infrastructure upgrades, and initiatives that lower emissions and improve air quality for nearby communities.

Louisiana’s ports support thousands of jobs and contribute significantly to local and national economies. With strategic planning funded by this EPA award, the state can better manage transitions to cleaner operations while strengthening competitiveness, protecting public health, and building resilience to climate-related challenges.

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