The maritime industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation, with sustainability and emissions tracking taking center stage. As a key player in this space, PortXchange has been at the forefront of helping US ports navigate these challenges.
In my role as PortXchange’s US expert, I’ve had the opportunity to engage with industry professionals at major events like the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) conference. Through these conversations, I’ve gained valuable insights into the pressing sustainability issues facing US ports, and one thing is clear: without decisive action, the US risks falling behind its global competitors.
The Impact of Federal Funding on Global Competitiveness
One of the most pressing concerns I’ve heard from port professionals is the lack of federal funding for sustainability and decarbonization initiatives. US ports recognize the need for cleaner operations, but without the financial backing to support green technologies and alternative energy solutions, progress remains slow.
This issue is further complicated by uncertainty in federal funding policies. Recent actions by current President Donald Trump—freezing and then unfreezing key federal grants—have left ports unsure of the future of their infrastructure projects. This kind of unpredictability makes it difficult for ports to commit to long-term decarbonization strategies.
The stakes are high. The maritime industry is in a “Space Race” for sustainable solutions, and US ports risk losing their competitive edge to Europe and Asia-Pacific, where green infrastructure investment is accelerating. Federal investment is critical not just for compliance but also to ensure US ports remain globally competitive as the industry shifts toward sustainability.
Read the article Why US Ports Need Real-Time Scope 3 Emissions Tracking
Challenges in Regulatory Compliance
Beyond funding, regulatory compliance remains a critical concern for US ports. As emissions standards evolve, ports must have continuous emissions monitoring to stay compliant with regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol.
Many port professionals I’ve spoken with understand that real-time emissions tracking is key to optimizing decarbonization efforts. However, the challenge lies in execution—ports need better tools to collect, manage, and report emissions data accurately and efficiently.
The Growing Importance of Emissions Tracking and Sustainability
At industry events, I’ve seen a growing understanding of the complexity of emissions tracking. Many port professionals express frustration over their inability to obtain a clear, real-time picture of their emissions footprint. 
The biggest challenges come down to:
- Data collection – Gathering accurate, real-time emissions data is complex.
- Stakeholder coordination – Managing and sharing emissions data across multiple parties adds another layer of complexity.
- Lack of prioritization – Many ports wait until regulations require action or until funding is linked to sustainability projects before implementing emissions tracking measures.
While federal grants for decarbonization projects are helping some ports move forward, those further along in their sustainability journey recognize the importance of consistent and transparent emissions inventories. The problem? Most ports still lack real-time data collection tools, leaving them with outdated or incomplete emissions reports.
The Issue of Scope 3 Emissions
Scope 3 emissions are those outside a port’s direct control. These are some of the biggest challenges for US ports to monitor and control. These Scope 3 emissions, which include those generated by ships at berth, shore-based and berth operations and transport logistics, can account for up to 90% of a port’s total emissions footprint.
Tracking and reducing Scope 3 emissions is therefore critical. However, many ports are reluctant to recognize their importance, put them into the too hard to handle for now or just lack the necessary tools to measure them accurately. Even when ports look at potential solutions, cost remains a significant barrier to adoption.
For example, shore power is seen as a key solution to reduce vessel emissions while docked. However, it is both costly and energy-intensive, placing additional strain on the power grid. Other potential solutions, like air scrubbing technologies, are similarly expensive and require substantial investment.
Without dedicated federal funding or cost-effective emissions tracking solutions, many ports hesitate to take meaningful action on Scope 3 emissions.
Read the article Understanding Scope 3 Emissions: The Potential of Port Sustainability
Real-Time Data and Operational Efficiency
Another key theme that keeps coming up in my discussions with port professionals is the growing realization of the link between real-time emissions data and operational efficiency.
Ports understand that improving efficiency can help reduce emissions, but many are still focused on more tangible, immediate solutions, including:
- Electrification of port-owned vehicles and cranes
- Shore power integration
- Alternative fuel adoption
While these steps are essential, they only address Scope 1 and 2 emissions. Once these initial efforts are implemented, I anticipate that ports will begin looking at more complex, high-impact measures for Scope 3 emissions, including just-in-time sailing and optimized vessel scheduling, both of which can dramatically reduce emissions through improved efficiency.
As port throughput increases, emissions will naturally rise. Without the right forecasting tools, ports may struggle to meet net-zero goals, especially as cargo volumes grow. The key to long-term sustainability lies in integrating emissions tracking with operational decision-making.
The Future of Digital Emissions Tracking
The adoption of digital emissions real-time tracking is still in its early stages among US ports. Many ports rely on emissions inventories conducted every few years, usually undertaken by 3rd part expensive consultants, which are not sufficient for the level of reporting that will soon be required, especially for regulatory Scope 3 emission reporting.
Despite the slow adoption rate, real-time emissions tracking will soon become the industry standard.
I see subscription-based models as a cost-effective way for ports to implement real-time monitoring without significant upfront investments. 
This is the approach we have implemented for our EmissionInsider, which allows ports to:
- Forecast emissions-related costs
- Better manage their sustainability budgets
- Allocate resources efficiently
This model provides a scalable, flexible way for ports to improve emissions transparency without having to commit to large, resource-heavy projects upfront.
The Way Forward for US Ports
The challenges facing US ports in terms of emissions tracking and sustainability are significant, but there is also great potential for positive change.
By adopting real-time emissions tracking, investing in decarbonization technologies and securing the necessary federal funding, US ports can reduce their environmental impact while improving operational efficiency.
At PortXchange, we’re committed to helping ports unlock the power of data and innovation to create a more sustainable future.
The road ahead may be challenging, but with the right tools, collaboration, specialist digital partners, and investment, US ports can lead the way in decarbonization and sustainability.
Keep in touch for more updates and insights as we continue to support the US port sector in its efforts to embrace sustainability and decarbonization.
