The Port of Seattle has teamed up with the Port of Dalian in China to develop an EcoPartnership aimed at "advancing environmental and economic sustainability."
The voluntary partnership will see the two ports collaborate on green projects to benefit both countries.
"Our green port strategy is designed to help create a truly sustainable supply chain - not just at our port, but at every step along the way," said John Creighton, Port of Seattle Commission President.
The EcoPartnership will last a minimum of three years and will include a focus on emergency response to oil spills in the harbor, marine terminal planning, construction management, and liner development.
US Senator Maria Cantwell said this cooperative approach is the best way to "make progress with China on environmental issues," a report in Seattle Times newspaper said.
"Nearly 30 years after Seattle played a key role resuming trade with China, I'm proud that we can build on these strong economic and cultural ties through global sustainability," said Tay Yoshitani, Port of Seattle CEO.
"Our green port strategy will help harness the power of the marketplace for a better environment."
President-elect Obama has said his administration could work to push through a new international climate treaty only if China and others join the US in large-scale emissions cuts, the report noted.