Government issues 2050 deadline for carbon free maritime sector

Vessels operating in UK waters and docks will be required to be carbon free, to make emission-free journeys a reality.

The UK Government’s maritime decarbonisation strategy will set out goals to reduce emissions by 30 per cent by 2030, an 80 per cent reduction by 2040, and net zero by 2050. Operators of larger vessels such as tankers and cruises will pay more for their greenhouse gas emissions under government plans.

The strategy also sets out plans to reduce emissions from shipping and increase the use of clean fuels and technologies, such as hydrogen, electric or ammonia vessels.

Maritime minister Mike Kane said: “Climate change is one of the greatest challenges we face today. Working together with industry and international partners, we are driving down emissions in every corner of the economy.

“As part of our plan for change, we’re committed to making the UK a green energy superpower, and our maritime decarbonisation strategy will help us build a cleaner, more resilient maritime nation.”

Logistics UK’s Senior Policy Manager Alexandra Herdman said: “Logistics UK welcomes any government initiative that could improve efficiency and decarbonisation in the sea freight sector.

“Government direction is vital if the sector is to meet decarbonisation targets, including clarity on future fuels and support for transitioning to alternative fuels and methods of propulsion.”