Overwhelming Support to Reduce Air Pollution from Ships, Trucks and Trains by Increasing Shipping Costs, According to Latest Poll
EN ESPAÑOL

A new statewide survey finds nearly three out of four Californians favor tougher air pollution controls for cargo ships, trucks and trains even if such controls raise the cost of transporting goods. The annual survey, released by the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) on July 26, showed that responses did not vary much by region, although Los Angeles County residents expressed the greatest support. Additionally, according to the survey, air pollution continues to be the most important environmental issue facing Californians.

The findings bolster support for the proposed policy outlined in SB 760 legislation (authored by state Sen. Alan Lowenthal) that will help reduce air pollution, while also increasing security at the ports and rail efficiency, by collecting a modest $30 for each massive container entering the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. SB 760 will help create jobs and provide safe air, safe ports and safe roadways. For example, the $30 collected translates into mere pennies on each DVD player sold.

Today, the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are the largest fixed source of air pollution in the South Coast region. According to the California Air Resources Board, 2,400 Californians die prematurely each year due to pollution from transporting goods. With these mortality figures in mind, it is not surprising the state's residents are willing to support increasing the costs of transporting goods to ensure their health is better protected.

“Would you be willing to see tougher air pollution standards
on ships, trucks, and trains that transport freight and cargo?”
(if yes: “Would this be true even if this made it more costly for
these businesses to operate?”)

To view the complete PPIC Survey http://www.ppic.org/content/pubs/survey/S_706MBS.pdf