The UK government has set out its measures to reach carbon-free shipping by 2050.
Within the UK government’s Plan for Change, the new maritime decarbonisation strategy intends to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 30 percent by 2030, 80 percent by 2040 and to zero by 2050. If accomplished, this will match the highest level of goals agreed at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in its 2023 strategy on reduction of GHG emissions from ships.
At the forefront of the drive is further investment in green technologies, such as charge points at ports, and fuels including hydrogen, electric or ammonia vessels.
Furthermore, the shipping sector will be brought under the UK emissions trading scheme (UK ETS) which will see operators of larger vessels pay more for their GHG emissions.
“The government’s strategy must now be matched by delivering the regulatory framework, technology and infrastructure, including a shore power revolution, required to support the green transition for UK maritime, bringing benefits to maritime communities and the UK economy,” added Rhett Hatcher, ceo of the UK Chamber of Shipping.
