The Halifax Port Authority (HPA) is taking steps to reduce vessel emissions. On April 1, 2022, the HPA joined the World Port Climate Initiative (WPCI) as an Incentive Provider with the International Association of Ports and Harbors’ (IAPH) Environmental Ship Index (ESI).  The HPA is now offering incentives to container and RoRo vessels that voluntarily register and meet ESI’s requirements in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The ESI formula evaluates the amount of nitrogen oxide (NOx), sulphur oxide (SOx) and carbon dioxide (COշ) emitted by a vessel. ESI scores indicate a ship’s compliance with emission standards. Scores range from 0 to 100, where a score of 100 indicates close to zero exhaust emissions. The index assists in identifying ships that proactively go beyond the emission standards required by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

The HPA will administer, and rebate annually, an ESI Harbor Dues Incentive of $500 CAD for vessels with an ESI-assigned Index score between 20 and 49.99, and $1,000 CAD for vessels with an ESI-assigned Index score of 50 or higher per port call.

The world’s leading ports have committed to reducing their environmental impact while continuing their role as transportation hubs and economic engines. As part of our commitment to sustainability, we continue to seek the cooperation of visiting vessels to address their emissions. Halifax became the fifth North American port to align itself with the ESI initiative.