Long Beach Container Terminal Contains Fewer Pollutants and Will Be Net Zero

Long Beach Container Terminal (LBCT), a pioneering cargo handling facility in Southern California, has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030. Its 2024 Net Zero Progress Report, released today, highlights significant advancements in clean energy adoption, infrastructure upgrades, and community investment.

The report outlines LBCT’s substantial strides in reducing emissions while maintaining its position as one of the most efficient and competitive terminals in the nation. Key updates include the deployment of additional electric ship-to-shore and rail cranes, a fully zero-emission terminal truck fleet, and the construction of a second battery charging and exchange facility.

“LBCT has demonstrated that economic growth and environmental stewardship can coexist,” said Anthony Otto, the terminal’s Chief Executive Officer. “Our clean-energy initiatives enable us to meet or exceed emission regulations while delivering unmatched efficiencies, such as the fastest truck turn times and shortest vessel berth stays in San Pedro Bay.”

A Holistic Approach to Sustainability

Beyond reducing greenhouse gas emissions, LBCT’s sustainability efforts extend to community enrichment and workforce development. The terminal invests in job training programs for local youth, supports underserved communities, and works to improve regional environmental conditions. Otto emphasized the terminal’s commitment to creating good-paying jobs while preparing the workforce for a zero-emission future.

“LBCT fosters trust with labor partners, ensuring that new zero-emission equipment is human-operated and built by American manufacturers,” said Tommy Faavae, Business Development Manager at IBEW Local 11.

LBCT’s progress has been recognized globally, earning the terminal a 96% rating from GRESB, a leading ESG benchmarking organization. The score places LBCT first among peer container ports worldwide.

Progress and a Vision for the Future

Since initiating its $2.5 billion, 15-year zero-emission conversion plan, LBCT has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 86%, quadrupling its cargo-handling capacity in the process. These accomplishments include utilizing onshore power for docked ships and integrating cleaner, greener vessels into its operations.

“LBCT remains a model for clean terminal operations not just in the San Pedro Bay port complex but beyond,” said Joe Lyou, CEO of the Coalition for Clean Air.

Looking ahead, LBCT plans to expand its clean-energy infrastructure with additional electric-charging stations and enhanced power storage. The terminal is also collaborating with the Port of Long Beach to advance the Clean Air Action Plan and inspire industry-wide decarbonization.

A Leader in the Maritime Industry

Founded in 1986, LBCT operates the state-of-the-art Middle Harbor Terminal facility, featuring the deepest dockside on the U.S. Pacific Coast and an electrified fleet of cranes and vehicles. These advancements underscore LBCT’s role as a global leader in sustainable maritime operations.

For more details, the full Net Zero Action Plan and progress reports are available under the “About Us/Corporate Messages” section of LBCT’s website.