New Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy Unveiled

Welcome, Net Zero News readers,

In a significant step towards a sustainable future, the UK Government has unveiled a bold new strategy aimed at achieving net-zero emissions for the country’s shipping fleet by the year 2050. This initiative, part of a broader maritime decarbonisation strategy, sets ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030, 80% by 2040, and ultimately to zero by 2050. This comprehensive approach aligns with the goals established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in its 2023 strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from ships.

The new strategy marks a pivotal moment for the UK’s maritime industry as it seeks to transition towards a greener and more sustainable future. Key to this transition is the incorporation of the shipping sector into the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS), which will require operators of larger vessels, including tankers and cruise ships, to pay a premium for their greenhouse gas emissions. This financial incentive aims to encourage operators to adopt cleaner practices and technologies, thereby contributing to the UK’s overarching climate goals.

Furthermore, the strategy emphasises the necessity of reducing emissions from shipping while simultaneously promoting the adoption of clean fuels and innovative technologies. These advancements include the development of hydrogen, electric, and ammonia-powered vessels, which are poised to revolutionise the industry and significantly cut emissions.

In a collaborative effort to demonstrate the viability of these new technologies, the government has partnered with ABB, a pioneer in vessel chargeport innovation, to implement a new strategy in Portsmouth. This initiative not only highlights the potential for private investment but also aims to create jobs and revitalise coastal communities, showcasing the multifaceted benefits of transitioning to a cleaner maritime sector.

More than £200 million of UK SHORE funding has already supported over 300 organisations across all regions of the UK, securing more than £100 million in private investment. This investment is crucial for kickstarting economic growth while simultaneously addressing the pressing challenge of climate change.

To further enhance this initiative, the government has launched two calls for evidence. These calls will gather insights to inform the creation of measures necessary to reduce emissions at berth, understand future energy demands at ports, and facilitate the decarbonisation of smaller vessels. These efforts underscore the government’s commitment to engaging with stakeholders and ensuring a comprehensive approach to maritime decarbonisation.

Maritime Minister Mike Kane emphasised the importance of collective action in addressing climate change, stating, “Climate change is one of the greatest challenges we face today. Working together with industry and international partners, we are driving down emissions in every corner of the economy.” He further expressed the government’s ambition to position the UK as a green energy superpower, with the maritime decarbonisation strategy serving as a vital component of this vision, fostering a cleaner and more resilient maritime nation.

Richard Ballantyne OBE, Chief Executive of the British Ports Association, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the proactive stance of UK ports in committing to net-zero targets and investing in new technologies and fuels. “The UK SHORE programme shows what can be achieved when government and industry work together on shared goals,” he remarked, emphasising the importance of collaboration in driving the transition to a sustainable maritime sector.

Chris Shirling-Rooke, Chief Executive of Maritime UK, also welcomed the government’s commitment, stating that it is essential for the country to continue driving change and pursuing growth through the creation of a cleaner and more sustainable future. His organisation looks forward to collaborating with the government on the maritime decarbonisation strategy to ensure its successful implementation.

Portsmouth International Port is set to become a leader in this transition, with plans to establish the UK’s first multi-berth, multi-ship ‘chargeport’ by providing renewable plug-in energy to ships alongside from spring 2025. Mike Sellers, Director of Portsmouth International Port, highlighted the significance of the Seachange Shore Power project, which exemplifies the success of both public and private investments supported by the government’s Zero Emissions Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) fund, driving innovation towards net-zero emissions.

Rhett Hatcher, CEO of the UK Chamber of Shipping, stressed the need for the government’s strategy to be supported by a robust regulatory framework, technology, and infrastructure. He called for a shore power revolution to facilitate the green transition for UK maritime, which would yield benefits for maritime communities and the broader UK economy. “We look forward to working collaboratively alongside government to progress this important agenda,” he remarked, reaffirming the commitment to achieving a cleaner and more resilient maritime sector.

Anna Krajinska, UK Director at Transport & Environment (T&E), expressed support for the government’s commitment to reducing shipping emissions, stressing the importance of ambitious targets being coupled with effective policy measures. She highlighted the need to address both domestic and international shipping emissions without delay, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Geraint Evans, Chief Executive of the UK Major Ports Group, pointed out that major ports play a central role in the UK’s transition to net zero, acting as hubs of innovation and supporting the development of future fuels and cleaner maritime infrastructure. He welcomed the government’s strategy, which provides essential policy certainty for the industry and unlocks investment in the technologies and infrastructure necessary to achieve emissions reductions.

Mark Dickinson, General Secretary of Nautilus International, raised a crucial point regarding the transition to new fuels, technologies, and vessel designs. He emphasised the importance of ensuring that this green revolution benefits maritime professionals, advocating for a just transition that guarantees quality jobs, comprehensive training, and appropriate upskilling for seafarers operating new systems. “We look forward to working closely with the UK government to achieve a just transition that supports continued economic and employment growth and prosperity for coastal communities,” he stated.

In conclusion, the UK Government’s maritime decarbonisation strategy represents a significant stride towards a greener future for the shipping industry. With ambitious targets, collaborative efforts, and a commitment to innovation, the UK is poised to lead the way in maritime sustainability. As we navigate through these pivotal changes, the collective efforts of government, industry, and communities will be crucial in ensuring a successful transition to a net-zero maritime sector.