Amsterdam targets 20% port emissions reduction by 2030

The Port of Amsterdam says it will promote sustainable marine fuels such as hydrogen and methanol for both sea-going and inland navigation vessels, and eventually mandate shore power to ships in port.

PHOTO: View of the Port of Amsterdam. Getty Images

As part of its clean shipping vision, Amsterdam intends to reduce shipping emissions in port by at least 20% by 2030, and become net zero by 2050.

By 2030, all cruise lines will have to operate emission-free. This demand will gradually be applied to all vessels by 2050, it says.

The port has launched a green award certification programme to create incentives for shipping companies and vessels to invest in cleaner fuel. It is also considering whether to offer port tariff discounts to vessels that stay shorter in port.

“We support shipping at an operational level, for example by giving priority to the cleanest vessels in using the berths near the city centre,” says Port of Amsterdam.

On its own end, Amsterdam will work to improve its digital infrastructure with the aim of reducing time spent in port and cut unnecessary emissions.

The port is currently converting its existing patrol fleet to run on biodiesel and will induct its first hydrogen-powered executive vessel by next year.