Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has urged the global maritime sector to commit to an "absolute zero" emissions target by 2050. This call follows the UK Government's decision to include shipping and aviation emissions in its Sixth Carbon Budget, which aims to reduce emissions by 78% by 2035. Previously, the Government's emissions reduction efforts focused solely on emissions within the UK's borders.
Incorporating Shipping in the Decarbonization Plan:
As part of the UK's Transport Decarbonisation Plan, the government plans to consult on phasing out the sale of new non-zero emission domestic vessels. Additionally, the Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) will be expanded to support the use of renewable fuels of non-biological origin in shipping.
The Need for Ambitious Targets:
Shipping currently accounts for approximately 3% of global CO2e emissions, but projections from researchers for the European Parliament suggest this proportion could rise to 17.5% by the mid-century without significant changes. To avoid such an increase, an ambitious and collective approach is necessary to achieve absolute zero emissions in the maritime sector.
The Importance of International Cooperation:
Given the global nature of the maritime industry, international cooperation is crucial in achieving emission reduction targets. The call for an "absolute zero" target by 2050 sets an ambitious goal for the sector, prompting stakeholders to work together to find innovative solutions and transition to cleaner and more sustainable practices.
Extending Emission Reduction Efforts:
Including shipping emissions in the Sixth, Carbon Budget demonstrates a shift in the UK Government's approach, recognizing the need to address emissions from sectors that were previously excluded. By consulting on the phase-out of non-zero emission vessels and supporting renewable fuels in shipping, the government aims to drive the transition towards a greener maritime industry.
Conclusion:
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps' call for an "absolute zero" emissions target in the maritime sector by 2050 highlights the need for global collaboration and ambitious action to tackle emissions from shipping. As the UK Government expands its focus to include emissions from international transportation, consultations on phasing out non-zero emission vessels and supporting renewable fuels demonstrate a commitment to decarbonizing the sector. With concerted efforts, the maritime industry can play a significant role in achieving global climate goals and reducing its environmental impact.
