International shipping and emissions

Abstract

Overview ◼ International shipping is responsible for 3% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. ◼ The sector is difficult to decarbonise owing to the long lifetime of ships, the complex network of actors in the sector and uncertainty around low-carbon technologies. ◼ Options are available for short-term reductions in GHG emissions but a transition to zero-emissions technologies will be required to fully decarbonise the sector. ◼ A number of zero-emissions fuels and drive systems are currently being developed. ◼ Emissions from international shipping are primarily regulated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). ◼ The IMO’s GHG targets are to be revised in 2023 and will need to be strengthened to meet the Paris Climate Agreement.