The Maryland Environmental Service will receive an award of $1.8 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to reduce diesel emissions at the Port of Baltimore.
The award will be used to replace diesel-powered yard trucks, forklifts, and other cargo-handling equipment with “newer, cleaner models” the EPA said in a news release.
The Port of Baltimore will also replace three drayage trucks – heavy-duty trucks that transport containers and bulk materials between the port and other locations such as distribution centers – with electric vehicles.
The grant will go towards the port’s Diesel Equipment Upgrade Program, which has reduced emissions at the port by 5,100 tons since 2008, Maryland Transportation Deputy Secretary Earl Lewis said at a press conference.
The program aims to reduce pollution and improve air quality in nearby communities.
The funding will particularly benefit the Turner Station community, the EPA said, which has been subject to heavy pollution and environmental injustice.
“These funds are a big boost for clean air and climate progress and that’s great news for Baltimore communities and Maryland economies,” Maryland Environment Secretary Ben Grumbles said in the news release.
