Port of Detroit Decarbonization and Air Quality Improvement

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The Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority recently completed the initial phase of its Port of Detroit Decarbonization and Air Quality Improvement Plan, which has the goals of a) reducing greenhouse gas emissions from port activity to net zero by the year 2040; and b) reducing other harmful emissions from port activity like fugitive dust, odors, sound, vibrations and light emissions that negatively impact health and the environment. The first phase included the development of the baseline carbon footprint for the Port of Detroit. The Port Authority engaged Tunley Environmental to perform the study and provide an estimate of carbon emissions and recommend strategies to eliminate those emissions. Southwest Detroit Environmental Vision was engaged to engage residents and organizations concerned about air quality and the environment in the study. The results of the study are summarized in an Executive Summary. In addition, Tunley developed an interactive map that shows the location and carbon emission for each port terminal and other entities that comprise the Port of Detroit. With the emissions inventory, which provides detailed estimates for shipping, goods handling, and local trucking for private businesses, and high levels of data transparency, the Port of Detroit is at the forefront of carbon reporting among ports in the Great Lakes.

Decarbonization will have significant benefits for the businesses within the Port and the wider community, including reduced emissions, increased efficiency, improved air quality, and improved environmental sustainability. In addition, the project is expected to improve coordination and future planning within the Port, engagement with local residents and strategic economic development for maritime trade.