Maritime decarbonisation strategy announced

The announcement was welcomed by Logistics UK, which has been pressing for changes to the existing plan for some time.

The strategy, which includes the UK emissions trading scheme being extended to maritime vessels, has put fuels of the future and shore power at the centre of the plan. To support this, DfT has published two supplementary calls for evidence:

• The net zero ports: challenges and opportunities call for evidence is seeking evidence by 24 June to support the government's consideration of an at-berth emissions requirement in the maritime decarbonisation strategy, looking at the role of ports in enabling shipping to decarbonise. This will include providing new infrastructure and seeks evidence on the future electricity demand at ports.
• The decarbonising smaller vessels call for evidence is open until 25 July and will provide government with essential information and data to help decarbonise and reduce the environmental impacts of vessels under 400 gross tonnage. It asks questions on the costs of these vessels, when the new technologies will be ready, what infrastructure will be required and where these vessels are likely to be built.

Logistics UK members have made it clear that government direction and support are needed to enable net zero shipping to become a reality. Logistics UK will continue to engage with DfT on maritime decarbonisation and will be responding to the above calls for evidence: if you would like to comment or make a contribution to Logistics UK’s response to the government, please contact Alexandra Herdman at aherdman@logistics.org.uk as soon as possible.

The announcement came as Logistics UK held a meeting with the Solent Stevedores group in Portsmouth, to discuss the challenges associated with modal shift between sea and rail freight. Members of the business group’s policy team visited the Stevedores’ rail terminal, to see its state-of-the-art facilities first hand, learn about its strategic importance in the intermodal logistics landscape and discover how rail connections can help to decarbonise the supply chain.

Spanning 18 acres and located less than half a mile from the UK’s second-largest container port, the terminal has undergone a significant £17.5 million upgrade, enhancing its capacity to handle both laden and empty containers efficiently. This facility is designed to support the government's net zero target by promoting a shift from road to rail transport, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainable logistics solutions. 

The terminal features newly designed tracks that allow for simultaneous train arrivals and departures, accommodating up to 15 intermodal services daily. Additionally, its comprehensive depot services - including container inspections, maintenance and cargo packing - position it as a vital hub for rail freight operations, underscoring its role in facilitating seamless supply chain connectivity across the region.

Published On: 03/04/2025 15:00:10

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