The Hong Kong Liner Shipping Association (HKLSA) has adopted a voluntary program effective from November 1, 2010 to encourage vessels to consume low sulfur fuel with no more than 0.1% sulfur content while at berth in Hong Kong to help the port reduce air pollution. Other commitments, including collaborating with the local government in regulating the use of low sulfur fuel in the Pearl River Delta region by December 31, 2012 will also be implemented. Evergreen Line's commitment to this program will include 10 of its most advanced green ships and one Hong Kong-registered vessel.
The Board of Commissioners of the Port Authority of New York/New Jersey has also introduced a similar program, in cooperation with the New York Shipping Association, by promoting cleaner air quality in this region. The program is an action element of the Clean Air Strategy and encourages operators of ocean-going vessels calling at certain PANYNJ marine terminals to utilize low sulfur fuel (< 0.2% Marine Gas Oil or 0.2% Marine Diesel Oil) and reduce vessels' speed to an average of 10 knots or less.
Participation Zone is the area measured from a qualifying PANYNJ Marine Terminal Facility berth and out to an arc of 20 nautical miles from the intersection of the Ambrose Channel Centerline and the COLREGS Demarcation Line for the NY/NJ Harbor. Evergreen Line will deploy three vessels to participate in this program.
