Page 50: of Marine News Magazine (November 2024)

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Tech

Exhaust-sucking Barges

Slash Ship Emissions in Port

STAX Engineering, based in Long Beach, California, has health by minimizing pollution from docked ships. The experienced signi? cant growth since launching its innovative California Air Resources Board (CARB) 2020 At-Berth emissions capture and control technology earlier this year. Regulation mandates that oceangoing vessels at California

Available as a land- or barge-based solution, the com- ports reduce emissions by using shore power, emissions pany’s mobile, ? exible exhaust capture system is designed containment devices or cleaner fuels while at berth. to ? t all ships without modi? cation, removing 99% of par- “We realized the industry couldn’t wait for long-term ticulate matter (PM) and 95% of nitrogen oxides (NOx) solutions like alternative fuels and infrastructure up- from all exhaust funneled into its system before the ex- grades, which would take years and massive capital in- haust is released as puri? ed gas. vestment,” Walker said.

The idea for the solution comes from seasoned inventor “Port communities worldwide face well-documented air and engineer Bob Sharp, STAX Engineering founder and quality challenges due to emissions from vessels at berth,

CTO. “He had the vision for a mobile emissions capture which contribute to health concerns like respiratory issues and control system that could modernize existing infra- and cardiovascular diseases. STAX offers a practical solu- structure for a cleaner future,” said Mike Walker, STAX tion to this ongoing issue,” Walker explained.

Engineering CEO. “His technical expertise laid the foun- In addition to ? ltering out PM and NOx from vessel ex- dation for the company’s core technology.” haust, Stax is actively expanding its system to include car-

Facing stricter emissions regulations and growing mar- bon capture, Walker said, noting that he anticipates rollout ket pressure to reduce its environmental impact, the mari- in 2025. “Once integrated, STAX will be able to trap and time industry has become a primary focus for Stax. Cali- permanently store converted carbon dioxide, making any fornia in particular presents a signi? cant opportunity due vessel using STAX services virtually emissions-free.” to its regulations aimed at improving air quality and public For STAX, market acceptance has come relatively

STAX Engineering 50 | MN November 2024