Starting January 1, 2025, tankers visiting Los Angeles and Long Beach ports, along with vehicle carriers at all California ports, must comply with a CARB Approved Emission Control Strategy (CAECS).

The At Berth Regulation (ABR), adopted by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) in 2007 and enforced since 2014, aims to control exhaust emissions from ships in California ports. The most recent update is the 2020 At Berth Regulation.

All ships must comply with the ABR and report required information to local authorities within 30 days of departure. Ships must meet opacity requirements, which assess smoke emissions from ship funnels using a scale to measure the cloudiness.

Since 2014, container ships, reefer ships, and passenger ships have been required to comply with CAECS. This regulation aims to further control emissions in California ports, primarily using shore power or CARB-approved emission control/capture systems. Starting January 1, 2025, tankers in certain California ports and vehicle carriers at all ports must comply. By January 1, 2027, the regulation will apply to tankers visiting all California ports, as shown below.

If using shore power, members should consult local agents for details on available facilities. It is recommended to record meter readings both onboard and shoreside to prevent contractual disputes. A useful directory is available here, showing shore power options at each California berth.

Members using an approved emission control/capture system can find the methods listed here.

Vessels should coordinate with local port authorities at least seven days in advance to determine the requirements and methods for compliance and complete the necessary checklists.

Vessels using alternative fuels or battery systems may be exempt, and in rare cases, payment into a remediation fund can ensure compliance due to equipment malfunctions. Both options should be confirmed with local port authorities before arrival.
Source: North Standard