Cleaner Air

The air on the waterfront has always been salty, and sometimes pungent, but today’s harbors are exposing dockworkers – and families with children living nearby – to dangerous air pollution that can cause asthma, heart disease, and cancer.

Pollution on the docks comes from many sources. Most are diesel-powered and emit fine particles that are dangerous but invisible to the eye.

Trucks haul containers to and from the ports

Ships operate huge engines at sea and smaller “auxiliary power units” at the dock.

Locomotives move trainloads of containers to and from the ports

Other harbor vessels include tugs, pilot boats, small tankers, and barges.

Vehicles and equipment on the docks include yard hostlers and trucks, forklifts, top-picks, and all sorts of cranes and transporters.

The ILWU launched a program in 2006 to push for cleaner air in the ports and surrounding communities. The “Saving Lives” campaign is committed to significantly reducing pollution. The union has participated in press conferences, public hearings, and meetings with elected officials – all designed to increase the pressure for cleaner air.

See also:

Bay Area Longshore Workers March Against Dirty Ship Emissions in Oakland Asthma Walk

Mayor Villaraigosa Joins Dock Workers Calling for Greener Ports on West Coast