Welcome to Pacific Environment’s September newsletter! This month, we celebrate World Maritime Day by highlighting how cleaner shipping solutions are transforming ports, protecting communities and addressing climate impacts. Additionally, we spotlight emerging zero-waste tourism initiatives in Asia and provide context and expert insight on what’s next following the recent Global Plastics Treaty negotiations.
Read on for the latest news, on-the-ground updates and ways you can support cleaner oceans, sustainable travel and a healthier planet.
Shipping powers the global economy, but it also worsens climate change and harms portside communities. This World Maritime Day, we’re spotlighting the growing momentum for cleaner shipping, from shore power projects in Washington and California to global negotiations at the International Maritime Organization.
Pacific Environment is pushing for zero-emission shipping at every level — local, national and international — to protect communities, tackle climate change and set a global standard for sustainable ports.
Explore nowFrom Seattle to Tacoma, ports are making bold investments in shore power, allowing ships to plug into the electrical grid instead of running diesel engines while docked. These upgrades reduce greenhouse gas and particulate emissions, improve air quality for nearby communities and create high-quality jobs — proving that cleaner, healthier ports are not just possible, they’re already happening.
Learn moreExplore some of our latest media highlights, op-eds and expert commentary featured in leading outlets.
As we recognize World Tourism Day, Pacific Environment is proud to support businesses and tourism destinations in Vietnam and China that are replacing single-use plastics with reusable alternatives and committing to zero-waste initiatives. With more travelers choosing sustainable options, these efforts are shaping a practical model for cleaner, greener tourism that protects ecosystems, supports local livelihoods and inspires people everywhere to leave places better than they found them.
Read morePacific Environment’s Philippines team supported the 2025 Para El Mar MPA Awards in Iloilo City to celebrate the country’s continuing efforts to conserve marine protected areas. From mangrove sanctuaries to coral reef havens, this biennial event highlights local and national efforts to protect biodiversity and build resilient coastal communities — a vision we share and continue to advance through our partnerships across the Philippines.
Learn moreNegotiators met in Geneva last month for the latest round of Global Plastics Treaty talks, but no agreement was reached. While a few countries slowed progress, most showed growing commitment to bold, coordinated action on plastic pollution. Pacific Environment’s Plastics Program Senior Director Kristen McDonald shares insights on why the talks stalled, the lessons learned and what’s ahead for global action on plastic pollution.
Read morePacific Environment recently hosted experts from the Global Maritime Forum, Opportunity Green and our team to explore the Net Zero Framework, maritime fuel choices and strategies for a just and equitable transition at ports and for policymakers. Davina Hurt, our climate policy director, moderated the discussion and Q&A, providing practical insights for advancing decarbonization in the shipping sector.
Watch webinarThis World Maritime Day, the stakes are higher than ever — for our oceans, portside communities and the climate. Pacific Environment is taking action to cut shipping emissions, protect health and hold polluters accountable. Your support fuels our work to advance zero-emission shipping and build a cleaner, healthier, more sustainable future. Every gift makes a difference.
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