California Air Resources Board (CARB)

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is the state agency that sets and enforces California air-quality rules, including the maritime At Berth Regulation and the Low Carbon Fuel Standard. The 2020 At Berth Regulation requires ocean-going vessels to plug into shore power or use a CARB Approved Emission Control Strategy while docked, cutting auxiliary-engine emissions. Coverage began with container ships, reefers, and cruise ships, expanding to auto carriers and tankers from 2025. Non-compliance carries fines up to 37,500 US dollars per item per day. CARB also administers the LCFS carbon-intensity credit market, which marine fuels may opt into.