Port of Hueneme and STAX Engineering Launch Pioneering Emissions Capture Project

PORT HUENEME— The Port of Hueneme, a prominent hub for international trade and a champion of environmental stewardship, has unveiled an innovative partnership with STAX Engineering to tackle maritime emissions. This collaboration introduces a cutting-edge emissions capture-and-control system designed to significantly reduce air pollution from ships.

 

The new system, developed by STAX Engineering, features mobile floating barges equipped with advanced filters capable of capturing harmful emissions directly from ocean-going vessel stacks. This initiative responds to the damage sustained by the Port’s Shoreside Power system during a major storm last December, which highlighted the need for improved emissions control.

 

 

The STAX Engineering system represents a major advancement in maritime environmental technology. Its key features:

• Emissions capture: The system is designed to enclose a vessel’s smokestack, effectively capturing particulate matter (PM) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions right at the source. This direct approach allows for more efficient pollution control compared to traditional methods.
• Efficiency and cost-effectiveness: Unlike shore power solutions that require extensive vessel modifications, the STAX system operates without disrupting vessel operations. This makes it a cost-effective option for both shipowners and port authorities.
• Renewable energy: The barge operates on renewable diesel, which is cleaner than conventional electricity from the grid. Its emissions are treated to meet California Air Resources Board (CARB) standards, aligning with the port’s sustainability goals.

 

Celina Zacarias, board president for the Oxnard Harbor District, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “The damage from the storm presents an opportunity to demonstrate our resilience and commitment to environmental leadership. By partnering with STAX Engineering, we are reinforcing our dedication to reducing emissions and moving closer to our zero-emissions goal.”

Kristin Decas, CEO and port director of the Port of Hueneme, expressed enthusiasm for the project: “Partnering with STAX Engineering on this groundbreaking project highlights our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship. This collaboration exemplifies our port’s adaptability in addressing maritime emissions challenges.”

 

STAX Engineering, a leader in maritime emissions control, has made significant strides in cleaning the air around congested ports worldwide. Their patented technology captures 99% of particulate matter and 95% of oxides of nitrogen from vessel exhaust, with proven success across multiple vessel classes. To date, STAX has treated 83 at-berth vessels for over 4,000 hours, removing 31 tons of pollutants.

 

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the Port of Hueneme’s ongoing efforts to enhance air quality and promote sustainable maritime practices.