New York and Rotterdam Enter Agreement

The agreement calls for both ports to share information and experiences that will enhance existing programs to improve air, water, soil, and wildlife quality. The agreement is part of a US Environmental Protection Agency-sponsored initiative known as "International Sustainable Ports and Carriers Partnership" which involves ports from the United States and the international community forming a partnership to advance mutual goals for improving the environment.

"This agreement will help us develop a strategy for implementing alternative energy solutions at our ports that will allow them to grow and prosper for many years," said Anthony R. Coscia, chairman of the NY-NJ Port Authority.

"As we begin our $2 billion investment to upgrade our port infrastructure, we must tackle with equal vigor the sustainability issues associated with those major capital projects," said Anthony E. Shorris, executive director, NY-NJ Port Authority.

"our port has achieved a national reputation for pioneering environmental programs that will ensure the region's sustainability for years to come," added Ernesto L. Butcher, deputy executive director, NY-NJ Port Authority. Butcher pointed out the Port Authority was investing $530 million to build a new ship-to-rail facility to reduce the dependence on trucks to move cargo.