UK Maritime Minister Mike Kane has revealed the government’s new goals for zero carbon shipping by 2050, with the aim that all vessels that operate in UK waters and dock at UK ports will be carbon free and the government will help vessel owners, operators and scientists make emission-free voyages a reality.
Part of the government’s Plan for Change to propel the UK towards becoming a green energy superpower and drive growth, the new Maritime decarbonisation strategy sets out goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030, 80% by 2040 and to zero by 2050. This will see the UK match the highest level of the ambitious goals agreed at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in their 2023 strategy on reduction of greenhouse gas emission from ships.
Under the new strategy, the shipping sector will be brought under the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS) so that operators of larger vessels such as tankers and cruises–which cause the most pollution–pay more for their greenhouse gas emissions. The strategy sets out plans to reduce emissions from shipping and increase the use of clean fuels and technologies, such as hydrogen, electric or ammonia vessels.
“As part of our Plan for Change, we’re committed to making the UK a green energy superpower and our maritime decarbonisation strategy will help us build a cleaner, more resilient maritime nation,” Kane said.
In addition, the government is also launching two calls for evidence to help inform the development of measures needed to reduce emissions at berth, understand the future energy demand at ports and decarbonize smaller vessels.
“We’re on track to become the UK’s first multi-berth, multi-ship ‘chargeport’ by providing renewable plug-in energy when ships are alongside from spring 2025,” said Mike Sellers, Director of Portsmouth International Port. “The seachange shore power project, demonstrates the success of both public and private investment, supported by the government’s zero emissions vessels and infrastructure (ZEVI) fund, driving innovation towards net zero.”
But as Rhett Hatcher, CEO of the UK Chamber of Shipping, said, the UK’s strategy has to be matched with a regulatory framework, technology and infrastructure. And Geraint Evans, Chief Executive of the UK Major Ports Group said, “The successful delivery of the government’s missions relies on strong public and private sector partnerships, and with the right long-term commitment and collaboration, we can accelerate the transition to lower-carbon shipping and ensure the UK remains a global leader in maritime sustainability.”
With global shipping accounting for 2% of all emissions, the UK will push for high ambitions at the UN’s next meeting of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in April, as it develops important measures to reduce emissions from global shipping.
