The total amount of cargo handled by Port Metro Vancouver in 2012 finally neared pre-recession levels, the port authority reported at its annual general meeting yesterday.
The port moved 124 million tonnes through its terminals in 2012, up from a low of 102 million tonnes in 2009. Before the global recession hit in 2008, the port handled 128 million tonnes of cargo.
Items such as coal, grain and potash have increased 6% over 2007 numbers. But lumber, logs, wood pulp, paperboard and metals have declined by 37% since 2007.
The port noted automobile shipments increased 29% in 2012 over 2011. It attributed the increase to consumers’ growing interest in hybrids and other fuel-efficient vehicles as gas prices rise.
Fraser Surrey Docks’ controversial plan to expand its coal-handling terminal was again in the spotlight at the port’s AGM. Around 20 speakers lined up to speak about their concerns about pollution from coal dust and coal’s contribution to global warming.
