Portsmouth port firm switches fuel to improve nearby air quality

A CARGO-handling firm in Portsmouth port is to use a low emission fuel to improve local air quality.
Portico, Portsmouth's international cargo operator, is switching fuel to improve local air quality. Picture: Portsmouth City CouncilPortico, Portsmouth's international cargo operator, is switching fuel to improve local air quality. Picture: Portsmouth City Council
Portico, Portsmouth's international cargo operator, is switching fuel to improve local air quality. Picture: Portsmouth City Council

Portico, a deep water cargo terminal owned by Portsmouth City Council and based within Portsmouth International Port, is working with its energy supplier to reduce emissions from its port side fleet, plant and machinery.

The alternative fuel provided by Certas Energy could reduce polluting nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 37 per cent and particulate matter by 50 per cent.

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Last year, Portsmouth's particulate matter levels – tiny particles dangerous to human health – meant the city’s air quality was among the worst in the country.

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Steve Williams, Operations Director at Portico, said: ‘We are constantly pursuing cleaner ways of working to minimise our environmental impact in the port area and for the local community.

‘By transitioning to a cleaner burning fuel with Certas Energy, we can reduce harmful local emissions of PM and NOx to make an immediate and positive difference to local air quality.’

The fuel – named Shell GTL Fuel – produces less odour, smoke and engine noise than conventional diesel.