April 28, 2022, Halifax, Nova Scotia – 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 Harbours’ (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 Harbour 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.

About the Environmental Ship Index:

The Environmental Ship Index (ESI) identifies seagoing ships that perform better in reducing air emissions than required by the current emission standards of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). As part of the effort to reduce greenhouse gas and air pollutants emissions in port areas, ports seek the cooperation of visiting vessels to address their exhaust emissions.

 About the Port of Halifax:

The Port of Halifax is Canada’s Ultra Atlantic Gateway, connecting to more than 150 countries. Offering a natural, deep harbour and big ship infrastructure, Halifax can accommodate large volumes of containerized cargo, breakbulk cargo, and project cargo of any size. Collaborating and working with strong partners and stakeholders, the Port community in Halifax continues to deliver excellence.

-30-

Emily Richardson
Communications Coordinator
Halifax Port Authority
m (902) 229-8011
[email protected]