The United Kingdom Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS), launched in 2021, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve net-zero by 2050. Initially excluding maritime shipping, plans to include domestic shipping by 2026 will cover vessels over 5,000 gross tonnage, addressing 15% of related emissions. Further integration with the EU ETS is also being discussed.
The UK ETS Authority is seeking feedback on a proposal to include emissions from international maritime voyages starting or ending in the UK, set for implementation in 2028. This would cover 50% of emissions under the UK ETS, aligning with EU standards and enhancing decarbonization efforts while evaluating potential impacts on maritime operators.
The 83rd session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) convened in London to address climate change in international shipping. With a focus on the IMO Net-Zero Framework, the committee approved measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from ships. Additional topics included plastic garbage, emission control areas, and ballast water management.
The international shipping industry is at risk of unwarranted arrests and severe prison sentences in certain ports due to a limited understanding of merchant ship operations by some judges. Drug smugglers are targeting ships, posing a challenge for crew members. BIMCO recommends security measures to prevent drugs from being hidden onboard.
