Duluth Seaway Port Authority sets a net-zero emissions 2050 goal

The Duluth Seaway Port Authority has adopted a climate action plan that aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The comprehensive plan focuses on sustainable practices at its facilities, including the Clure Public Marine Terminal and the Duluth Lake Port.

“Our climate action plan and Green Marine initiatives will work in concert to help direct our environmental stewardship efforts,” says Jeff Udd, the port authority’s director of government and environmental affairs.

Key objectives in the climate action plan included:

• A phased transition of vehicles and equipment to zero-emissions alternatives, allowing for cold temperature and operational testing.
• Additional integration of shore power to reduce emissions from vessels at berth as fittings become standardized and infrastructure is feasible.
• Continued procurement of renewable energy sources for required electricity.
• Implementation of verified carbon offset projects.
• Regular monitoring and reporting to track progress towards net-zero.

“With tangible goals, objectives and timelines in place, we have a roadmap to achieving net-zero operating emissions and other environmental benchmarks,” Udd says.