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.