EU Climate & Environment Policy
Liner shipping is leading the maritime sector effort to decarbonise through direct investment in vessels that can operate on near-zero and zero-GHG fuels.
WSC works with the EU on climate and environmental matters, including EU leadership at the IMO on a global decarbonisation framework.
Decarbonising shipping globally.
WSC works with the European Commission and Member States to achieve binding GHG reduction standards and GHG pricing that apply globally. The transition to a net-zero EU regional economy depends upon EU leadership at the IMO.
The IMO Net-Zero framework is ambitious and keeps member states competitive in the global economy.
Sustainable Fleet Renewal.
Advance global improvements to ship recycling by leading revision of the Hong Kong Convention (HKC).
Responsible recycling of vessels at the end of their commercial lives is essential to achieving GHG reductions by accelerating the pace of fleet renewal. Sustainable global ship recycling regulations to minimise accidents, injuries, and improve protective measures for the environment are a priority for WSC members. The EU should lead the update of the HKC with the aim to improve global ship recycling practices, supported by thoughtful revision of the EU Ship Recycling Regulation (SRR).
The European List of Ship Recycling facilities includes less than 1% of global ship recycling capacity. The Commission needs to expand the list to include additional recycling facilities with sustainable practices and to create incentives for all facilities to improve safety and environmental standards. Importantly, a port call based recycling fee would undermine EU port and supply chain competitiveness while failing to make recycling more sustainable.
In partnership with policymakers, the WSC is committed to advancing these environmental initiatives, leveraging innovation and global cooperation to achieve a sustainable and decarbonised maritime sector.
Read all our recommendations for EU Policy Priorities 2024-2029
“Setting Course Together for a Sustainable, Competitive and Secure Maritime Sector”
WSC’s EU Shipping Decarbonisation Report 2050
WSC’s latest report underscores the need for effective European and Global regulatory action to accelerate the transition to renewable marine fuels.
EU ETS
The EU and liner shipping are working towards a shared objective to minimize total greenhouse gas emissions and reduce the climate impact of shipping. Inclusion of shipping in the EU ETS will encourage shipping’s journey towards decarbonisation and accelerate emission reductions among non-maritime sectors.
Fuel EU
WSC strongly supports the EC’s proposed ‘well-to-wake’ lifecycle approach for greenhouse gas intensity, as a comprehensive, globally accepted scientific approach. It is, however, crucial that the fuel use obligations outlined in the proposal are matched by measures to ensure the supply of suitable fuels and infrastructure through RED and AFIR. The legal requirement to use certain fuels should be contingent on their availability.