EU must implement a zero-GHG fuel pathway to achieve 2040 ambition - WSC
The EU must intensify its efforts to promote zero-emission fuels following the European Commission's proposal for a 90% reduction in GHG emissions by 2040, compared to 1990 levels, the World Shipping Council (WSC) urges.
PHOTO: Exhaust gases flow from the funnel of a container feeder vessel. Getty Images
“The EU goals recognize the need to incentivize the production of green maritime fuels and to prioritize green fuels access for the maritime sector,” WSC writes.
The European Commission (EC) noted that the objectives outlined in FuelEU Maritime will drive the adoption of low-emission marine fuels and green ships. The EC stated in its proposal that the maritime sector will be given priority access to fuels like e-fuels and advanced biofuels over other sectors that already have alternative decarbonisation solutions available.
It also intends to address barriers to the deployment of alternative low- and zero-emission fuels in maritime transport.
The WSC has called on the EU to increase investments to boost the production of zero-emission marine fuels, as well as develop the infrastructure for their distribution. It also recommends that the IMO consider the EU's regional targets when developing the Global Fuel Standard and carbon pricing mechanism as part of its mid-term measures.
“EU policymakers need to translate these regional goals into increased national commitments to produce the fuels required by EU regulations like FuelEU Maritime,” James Corbett, WSC Environmental Director Europe, said.
“The liner sector is already investing in the vessel technologies to use renewable marine fuels, and global decarbonisation for all of shipping depends upon EU leadership in reaching international agreement at the IMO MEPC,” Corbett added.
In a similar vein, the Global Maritime Forum also urged the IMO to encourage the shipping sector to adopt zero-emission fuels within this decade to achieve a shipping sector-wide transition by 2040.
By Konica Bhatt
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