STAX Engineering, a trailblazer in maritime emissions capture and control solutions, has announced the delivery of its fourth barge, the STAX 4, to the Port of Benicia. This milestone coincides with an expanded partnership with AMPORTS, a North American leader in automotive port logistics, to address maritime emissions in compliance with the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) 2025 regulations. This strategic collaboration aims to improve air quality, support regulatory compliance, and enhance sustainable operations at one of California’s busiest ports.
Supporting a Vital Maritime Hub
The Port of Benicia plays a pivotal role in California’s economy, handling approximately 260,000 imported vehicles annually. This represents 20% of the state’s seaborne vehicle imports, with vessels arriving from Asia, Europe, and Mexico. Through this partnership, STAX Engineering will deploy its state-of-the-art mobile emissions capture technology to serve all auto carriers docking at the port. This initiative is projected to eliminate over 430 tons of emissions and provide 56,000 hours of emissions capture and control services annually.
Mike Walker, CEO of STAX Engineering, emphasized the importance of this development “With this partnership at the Port of Benicia, we’re advancing emissions control for one of the most critical segments of maritime shipping—auto carriers. By delivering accessible, effective technology, we’re helping partners like AMPORTS tackle emissions challenges head-on while improving air quality and ensuring compliance with new regulations. This is a significant step toward cleaner operations in one of California’s busiest ports.”
Revolutionary Emissions Capture Technology
STAX’s patented emissions capture system sets a new standard in maritime pollution control. The system connects to vessel exhaust systems without requiring retrofits, removing 99% of particulate matter and 95% of nitrogen oxides before releasing purified air. This innovative solution addresses the urgent need to curb pollutants that pose risks to public health and aligns with CARB’s stringent emissions standards.
AMPORTS’ Commitment to Sustainability
AMPORTS, with over 60 years of expertise in automotive port logistics, processes over 1.5 million vehicles annually across its 13 locations in the U.S. and Mexico.
The integration of STAX’s emissions technology reflects AMPORTS’ commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. Vee Kachroo, CEO of AMPORTS, stated “At AMPORTS, we don’t say no to a challenge—we find the solution. The integration of emissions capture technology at Benicia highlights our ability to embrace innovation and deliver sustainable solutions that benefit both our customers and the environment.”
Industry-Wide Impact
Since its launch in early 2024, STAX Engineering has rapidly scaled its operations, providing emissions control solutions across California’s major ports, including Los Angeles, Long Beach, Oakland, and Hueneme. With over 10,000 hours of emissions capture completed and 75 tons of pollutants treated, the company is solidifying its position as a leader in emissions compliance solutions.
STAX’s partnerships with global shipping giants like NYK Line, Hyundai GLOVIS, and K-Line further validate its technology’s scalability and effectiveness. The company plans to deploy 27 barges by the end of 2027, with its fifth barge already set for delivery to the Port of Los Angeles.
About AMPORTS
AMPORTS is one of North America’s largest vehicle processing companies, offering seamless automotive logistics solutions at 13 locations across the U.S. and Mexico. With a strong focus on sustainability and operational excellence, AMPORTS processes over 1.5 million vehicles annually, serving some of the world’s largest automakers.
This collaboration between STAX Engineering and AMPORTS represents a significant leap toward sustainable maritime operations, setting a new benchmark for emissions control in the bunkering and shipping industry.
About STAX Engineering
STAX Engineering is a pioneer in maritime emissions capture and control technology. Its flexible exhaust capture system is designed to fit all ship types without modifications, making it a vital solution for reducing maritime emissions in congested ports. Recognized as one of Fast Company’s Next Big Things in Tech in 2024, STAX is committed to advancing cleaner air initiatives and supporting regulatory compliance for the shipping industry.
Source STAX Engineering