Welcome to Pacific Current — where we share the progress, challenges and opportunities shaping our work to advance climate solutions, reduce pollution and protect ocean and Arctic ecosystems.
Singapore marks milestone with first electric tug in Southeast Asia
What does a zero-emission port actually look like? Singapore is offering a glimpse with Southeast Asia’s first fully electric tug, marking a major milestone in decarbonizing one of the region’s busiest ports. Backed by strong industry collaboration, this achievement shows maritime decarbonization is no longer theoretical, it’s already underway on the water. Now, the challenge and opportunity is scaling from a single vessel to full fleet-wide adoption to unlock cleaner air, quieter operations and lasting climate impact.
Learn moreThe 2025 Reef Check survey results and what they mean for Malaysia’s coral reefs
Malaysia’s coral reefs are declining at an alarming rate, with new survey data showing significant losses in just the past few years. In this blog, Julian Hyde — Pacific Environment’s Malaysia senior marine program advisor and chief executive officer of Reef Check Malaysia, one of our key partners — explores what’s driving the decline, including bleaching, pollution and tourism pressure, and why it matters for food security, livelihoods and coastal communities. He also highlights the urgent need to build reef resilience by reducing local impacts and calls for stronger action to protect these vital ecosystems.
Read moreNew report: Inside Japan’s push for carbon neutral ports
A new study by the University of California, Berkeley, commissioned by Pacific Environment, examines Japan’s approach to decarbonizing maritime ports, including its Carbon Neutral Port certification and Yokohama’s initiatives. As global momentum for cleaner shipping grows, the report highlights Japan’s efforts to set benchmarks for reducing emissions and improving air quality in port communities. It also explores how policies and infrastructure must evolve alongside new technologies.
Explore nowIn the news
Explore some of our latest media highlights and expert commentary featured in leading outlets.
- Administration’s Maritime Action Plan misses defining an opportunity to strengthen US shipping competitiveness and capture emerging clean maritime markets (Maritime Fairtrade)
- New analysis by UC Berkeley highlights Japan’s port decarbonization leadership (AJOT)
- Study calls on Yokohama to Phase Out Port Call Incentives for LNG-Fuelled Ships (Ship & Bunker)
Meet our newest team members
Pacific Environment is excited to welcome three new team members advancing our work across the Arctic and Climate programs.
Julia Hnilicka joins as Arctic advocacy manager on our Arctic team. She brings experience in public service and coalition-building, and will support efforts to advance pollution prevention, biodiversity protection and climate solutions in the Arctic.
Reema Bzeih joins as state climate policy manager. She brings deep experience in state climate policy and will support the adoption of strong policies and funding mechanisms to advance zero-emission shipping and port decarbonization.
Karina Brocco French joins as climate state policy manager for the Northeast. She brings a background in environmental policy and marine science, and will support efforts to advance zero-emission shipping and port decarbonization across the region.
Make a gift today to support Pacific Environment
Now more than ever, Pacific Environment needs your help to protect our oceans, portside communities and the planet. Take action and make your gift to cut emissions, safeguard ecosystems and build a cleaner future for biodiversity.
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