In 2024, European shipping emissions surged to unprecedented levels, marking a 13% increase and reaching their highest point since mandatory reporting began in 2018. This rise occurred despite a decline in EU-related seaborne trade, as highlighted in a report by the European Federation for Transport and Environment, also known as Transport & Environment. The spike was influenced by disruptions in the Red Sea, which forced ships to take longer routes, revealing the shipping sector’s vulnerability to operational changes.
Containerships were identified as the main contributors to this emissions increase, with a striking 46% rise. This increase resulted from longer average sailing distances and faster operational speeds, prompting the need for additional vessels to manage these extended routes. Notably, even a minor increase in sailing speed can significantly escalate emissions.
Agathe Peigney, a maritime transport policy officer at Transport & Environment, stated, “Last year’s record pollution demonstrates that trade disruptions can lead to higher emissions from ships.” She stressed the importance of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) in the wake of inadequate international agreements on emissions reduction.
Despite the EU’s commitment to renewable energy, fossil fuel transport emissions remained stubbornly high, constituting about 20% of total EU shipping emissions. As the ETS nears its second operational year, with nearly full compliance, stakeholders emphasize the upcoming review as a critical opportunity to enhance maritime climate regulations.
Share it now
