Shipping line APL has volunteered to burn cleaner fuel in every vessel calling at the ports of New York and New Jersey (NY/NJ).

The agreement will result in APL vessels using low-sulphur fuel in auxiliary generators while berthed and is part of a NY/NJ Port Authority programme designed to curb emissions in the area.

Gene Seroka, APL President in the Americas, said: "We have been leaders in implementing clean-air measures on our ships. Bringing this effort to New York Harbour is a logical step for us."

Earlier this month, APL joined a low-sulphur fuel program at the Port of Hong Kong. It is also part of similar programmes at the ports of Los Angeles, Oakland, Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia.

The NY/NJ Port Authority will reimburse 50% of the added cost APL incurs.