Pacific Environment celebrates introduction of Washington statewide shore power policy bill
SEATTLE (February 5, 2025) — Today, Pacific Environment celebrated the introduction of HB 1689 by Washington State Representatives Julia Reed, Liz Berry, Lisa Parshley, Beth Doglio, Gerry Pollet and Alex Ramel. The landmark bill will direct the Department of Ecology to adopt a statewide shore power policy that will accelerate shore power installation across the state to reduce air pollution and other environmental impacts from large vessels at Washington’s ports. Without changes, these port emissions will continue to not only contribute to climate change but continue to intensify environmental health disparities in nearby communities, including increased risk of cancer and other serious health effects.
Seventeen environmental, health and labor groups are in support of the policy.
“Dirty diesel ship pollution disproportionately affects portside communities,” said Jayne Stevenson, State Climate Policy Manager. “This bill can help Washington become a national leader in the sustainable shipping revolution. Instead of idling their engines and emitting pollution from fossil fuels while at port, ocean-going vessels can plug in to clean, sustainable electricity and help drive immediate environmental benefits to Washington’s waters, air and infrastructure.”
HB 1689 will direct the Department of Ecology to:
- Improve the health of Washingtonians and even save lives by reducing the noxious emissions spewed by these vessels that increases rates of cancer, cardiovascular and respiratory issues and premature death;
- Create jobs and help communities thrive; and
- Meet Washington’s sustainability goals.
The bill was heard in the WA House Environment and Energy Committee today and will move to in the House Transportation Committee next. To learn more about HB 1689 and shore power, visit our dedicated webpage.
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About Pacific Environment
Pacific Environment works to stop climate change and ensure healthy ecosystems around the Pacific Rim for the benefit of people and our planet. We campaign to stop climate change by working to fast-track key industries toward zero carbon emissions. We focus on major global industries that have received less public attention but whose carbon emissions are significant and still growing: the maritime shipping and the petrochemical (plastics) industries.
