Propane Can Help Ports Meet Emissions Goals

Ports can’t afford to slow down, and stricter environmental regulations and emissions standards are pushing port authorities to balance operational efficiency with reducing their carbon footprint. By replacing traditional gas and diesel as an energy source, propane can help ports reduce emissions and air pollution without sacrificing power or efficiency. Let’s explore how.

Reduced emissions

Propane is nontoxic and won’t contaminate soil or water. A byproduct of natural gas processing and sometimes crude oil refining, propane is recognized for its lower emissions profile compared to fuels like gas and diesel. In fact, propane is listed as an approved alternative fuel under the Clean Air Act. When used in engines to power port tractors, forklifts, light- and medium-duty vehicles, and more around port terminals, propane emits significantly fewer greenhouse gases, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter than diesel and gas.
Here are some examples:

Propane port tractors

1. In terminal tractors and light-duty vehicles, propane produces 12% fewer greenhouse emissions than gasoline.
2. Terminal tractors produce 99% less particulate matter than diesel tractors.

Propane forklifts

1. Propane forklifts reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 16% compared with gasoline-fueled forklifts.
2. Propane forklifts produce up to 94% fewer nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions than diesel.