The European Community Shipowners' Associations (ECSA) has released its policy paper outlining its stance on the Fit for 55 European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) proposal.
ECSA is advocating for the establishment of a dedicated fund within the EU ETS framework to ensure pricing stability. Additionally, it urges that revenues generated under the EU ETS be utilized to financially support research and development (R&D) projects and contribute to reducing the price gap between cleaner and traditional fuels. The association highlights that the current financing for sector decarbonization through the Innovation Fund lacks a legally binding commitment specifically for the shipping industry.
In line with the "polluter pays" principle, ECSA affirms its support, emphasizing that operational decisions should entail responsibility. Consequently, it backs the proposal for commercial operators to bear the costs associated with the EU ETS. ECSA calls for the implementation of a legally binding mandate that would enable shipping companies to pass on these costs to the commercial operators.
By advocating for a dedicated fund and reinforcing the "polluter pays" principle, ECSA aims to ensure pricing stability, facilitate financial support for R&D projects, and establish clear cost allocation responsibilities within the EU ETS proposal.
