Possible Solutions

To reduce air pollution caused by maritime transport, older ships should be replaced and cleaner fuel should be used. New technology allows ships to greatly reduce their particulate, nitrogen and sulphur oxide and carbon dioxide emissions.

Some ports provide supply electricity to ships moored at the wharf. This means they do not need to run their engines to produce electricity. Energy usage on ships can also be reduced by installing heat recovery systems and more efficient lighting systems and coolant pumps.

The upgraded unloading system on this cargo ship cuts dust emissions and cargo residues. Conveyors in tunnels carry grain from the ship's holds to the exit, where they are sent to the port's silos.

The Green Marine environmental certification program was launched in 2007. On a voluntary basis, participants work to adopt more environmentally-friendly maritime practices. Ship owners, ports, Seaway corporations, terminals and shipyards all participate in the program. Its target performance indicators include air pollutant emissions, greenhouse gases, and dry bulk storage and handling.