Port of San Diego joins Green Marine

San Diego, California, September 14, 2018 – As champions in the safekeeping and environmental care of San Diego Bay and its diverse ecosystems, the Port of San Diego has enrolled in Green Marine, North America’s largest voluntary environmental certification program for the maritime industry.

“Year after year, we set environmental goals and measure our green initiatives to further improve our greenhouse gas reduction, sustainable development, water conservation, waste management and responsible business practices,” said Chairman Rafael Castellanos, Board of Port Commissioners. “We’re confident that benchmarking and certifying our environmental performance through Green Marine’s framework is in keeping with our constant efforts to protect our land, air and water.”

Green Marine’s environmental program makes it possible for port authorities, terminal operators and ship owners to voluntarily reduce their environmental footprint through a comprehensive program that addresses key environmental issues that are common to most ports. Some are applicable to shipping activities, others to landside operations. The port-related criteria focus on greenhouse gases, spill prevention, waste management, environmental leadership, community impacts, and underwater noise.

The Port of San Diego is the second port in California to become a Green Marine participant. Port of Hueneme was first.

“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome the Port of San Diego, whose green efforts are impressive already,” said David Bolduc, Green Marine’s executive director. “By joining Green Marine, the Port of San Diego is further strengthening its commitment to sustainability by choosing to benchmark those efforts, have them externally verified, and share the Port’s knowledge and experience with the other industry leaders participating in our program.”

“The Port of San Diego is excited to join the Green Marine program. Our environmental efforts are all aimed at ensuring San Diego Bay remains a vibrant resource and contributes to a remarkable way of life for visitors and residents for generations to come,” said Randa Coniglio, president and CEO, Port of San Diego.

The Port of San Diego:

• Established a Blue Economy Incubator in 2016 to foster sustainable aquaculture and pilot emerging blue technologies that can deliver multiple benefits to the whole Port community such as fisheries enhancement, ecosystem restoration, water quality improvements, environmental monitoring, and education and outreach.
• Implemented shore power in 2010, one of the first ports on the West Coast to do so.
• Adopted a Climate Action Plan in 2013, one of the first ports in the U.S. to do so.
• Is a regional leader in planning for sea level rise.
• Has numerous programs in support of environmental protection, environmental conservation, energy & sustainability, and more.

The Green Marine certification process is rigorous and transparent. Results are independently verified every two years and each company’s individual results are published annually and made available online at: www.green-marine.org/certification/results/

About the Port of San Diego:

The Port of San Diego serves the people of California as a specially created district, balancing multiple uses on 34 miles along San Diego Bay spanning five cities. Collecting no tax dollars, the Port manages a diverse portfolio to generate revenues that support vital public services and amenities.

The Port champions Maritime, Waterfront Development, Public Safety, Experiences and Environment, all focused on enriching the relationship people and businesses have with our dynamic waterfront. From cargo and cruise terminals to hotels and restaurants, from marinas to museums, from 22 public parks to countless events, the Port contributes to the region’s prosperity and remarkable way of life on a daily basis.

About Port of San Diego Environment:

Port of San Diego Environment champions the safekeeping and environmental care of our diverse ecosystems. Year after year, environmental goals are set and measured to evolve environmental initiatives – ensuring San Diego Bay remains a vibrant resource and contributes to a remarkable way of life for visitors and residents for generations to come.

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