Brazil and Norway have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a green shipping corridor between the two countries. The MoU creates a series of actions to benefit the entire logistics chain, such as establishing the operationalization of the decarbonized maritime corridor, improving business cooperation between Brazil and Norway to promote sustainability and stimulating low or zero carbon value chains.
A green shipping corridor is a special maritime route for vessels that use advanced technology and low or zero carbon fuels, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Ports on either end of the corridor provide the fuels and, as in other agreements, Brazil and Norway will provide the electrification of ports, to guarantee clean energy for ships awaiting authorization to dock rather than expecting them to burn their own fuel.
“This is a project that will bring benefits to the entire world, not just to the two countries,” said Silvio Costa Filho, Brazil’s Minister of Ports and Airports. “Together with the Norwegian government, we have adopted a commitment capable of making the maritime mode even more sustainable and ecologically developed. We are committed to building a sector that combines economic development and environmental responsibility, positioning Brazil as a reference on the global stage.”
The pilot project will involve key industry partners and research institutes on both sides of the Atlantic to identify strategic routes and ports, as well as develop and enable the use of zero-emission fuels. Norway and Brazil intend to present one or more options for a sustainable transatlantic corridor at the Climate Summit (COP30), which will be held in Belém from 10 to 21 November this year.
“Since the beginning of our relations, the ocean has been the link that unites Brazil and Norway. Both countries have the knowledge and technology necessary to advance towards more sustainable maritime transport. With a solid maritime history, Norway reaffirms its commitment to the energy transition and recognizes, in this innovative project, a strategic opportunity to demonstrate to the world the potential of more sustainable navigation,” said the Norwegian ambassador, Odd Magne Ruud.
The agreement is notable since both Brazil and Norway are leading oil producers in their regions. Brazil recently urged the UN not to pursue a proposed carbon levy on international shipping, arguing it would harm exports and raise costs. While many of the more than 46 countries that support the carbon levy say it could generate billions to help poor nations address climate change, Brazil, China, Saudi Arabia and others argue the tax would disproportionately impact developing nations and increase economic inequality. A decision is expected in April.
The policy includes the adoption of measures for public entities and private companies. In the public sector, the Annual Sustainability Policy Agenda will be drawn up, which will include projects, studies and possible regulatory changes. For the private sector, in turn, the implementation of the policy will be made possible through the Pact for Sustainability, a commitment aimed at companies interested in adopting environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices.
The mission to promote sustainability and decarbonization in the transportation sector includes an initial agenda that includes 15 actions, and international agreements, and the use of sustainable fuel for aircraft, also known as SAF. The waterway transport project, according to the MPor Sustainability Agenda, will begin to be implemented in Brazilian ports this year.
