Connecting the dots: Policy connections between Pacific Island shipping and global CO2 and pollutant emission reduction

Abstract

The relationships between the global discourse on emissions reduction, particularly in regard to international shipping, and the need for more sustainable Pacific Island sea transport services are discussed. Renewable energy applications for such shipping are not currently considered in the drive to reduce fossil fuel dependency in the region. The domestic Pacific Island shipping scenario and international shipping and emissions reduction efforts are summarized. Data availability is limited; however, the authors extrapolate from Fiji data to give a 'best guess' of the likely range of emissions produced by the Pacific Island shipping and argue that reduction targets are achievable based on results of experiments in the last oil crisis. Five policy areas are identified that connect the local need with the global discourse and give rise to the promotion of sustainable, low-carbon maritime transport for this unique region. © 2014 Future Science Ltd.