Policy advice for supply chain air emissions

Challenge

A US Transportation Research Board (TRB) panel was concerned about the patchwork of local, state and federal regulations governing emissions of air pollutants across the supply chain. The TRB therefore requested an independent study of air emissions policy-setting by regional and local public agencies, with a view toward establishing best practices, considering public-private cooperation opportunities and providing lessons learned to educate policy-makers.

Approach

  • Methodology: Performed a literature review, conducted initial stakeholder interviews, considered relevant metrics, prepared case studies and synthesized findings.
  • Case studies: Developed case studies covering international experience, US national experience, ports and inland perspectives and corporate programs.
  • Major themes: Focused on partnerships and win-win opportunities; operational optimization; equipment and technology; the sustainability brand; and unintended consequences.

Results

  • Collaboration: Proposed ways to consult with stakeholders and across jurisdictions, during the regulatory process.
  • Analytics: Recommended analysis of trade-offs, use of performance-based regulations and measurement of end-to-end supply chain sustainability.
  • Policy role: Suggested effective ways for public policy-makers to influence outcomes while minimizing unintended consequences.