The UK Government has announced a new strategy to make the country’s shipping fleet net zero by 2050.
Plans through the new maritime decarbonisation strategy include reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030, 80% by 2040 and to zero by 2050.
This will see the UK match the goals agreed at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in its 2023 strategy on reduction of greenhouse gas emission from ships.
Through the new strategy, the shipping sector will be brought under the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS). This will see operators of larger vessels such as tankers and cruises pay more for their greenhouse gas emissions.
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.
In addition, the government announced a new strategy in Portsmouth with vessel chargeport pioneer ABB to demonstrate how the new technologies will bring private investment, jobs and revitalise coastal communities.
More than £200 million of UK SHORE funding having already supported more than 300 organisations across every nation and region in the UK and secured over £100m of private investment, helping to kickstart economic growth.
The government has also launching two calls for evidence to help inform the development of measures needed to reduce emissions at berth, understand the future energy demand at ports and decarbonise smaller 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.
Richard Ballantyne OBE, Chief Executive of the British Ports Association, said:
“UK ports are already demonstrating their commitment to net zero with ambitious targets and investment in new technologies and fuels. The UK SHORE programme shows what can be achieved when government and industry work together on shared goals.
“We will continue to work closely with the Department for Transport on lowering barriers to investment and decarbonisation for both ports and vessels and this strategy will help set a clear direction and expectations well into the future. We look forward to a continued close partnership built on common aims.
Chris Shirling-Rooke, Chief Executive of Maritime UK, said:
“It is vital that our country continues to drive change and chase growth by creating a cleaner and more sustainable future. We welcome the government’s commitment today and look forward to continuing to work with them on the maritime decarbonisation strategy.
Mike Sellers, Director of Portsmouth International Port, said:
“To help achieve this ambition, we’re on track to become the UK’s first multi-berth, multi-ship ‘chargeport’ by providing renewable plug-in energy when ships are alongside from spring 2025.
“The seachange shore power project, demonstrates the success of both public and private investment, supported by the government’s zero emissions vessels and infrastructure (ZEVI) fund, driving innovation towards net zero.”
Rhett Hatcher, CEO of the UK Chamber of Shipping, said:
“The government’s strategy must now be matched by delivering the regulatory framework, technology and infrastructure, including a shore power revolution, required to support the green transition for UK maritime, bringing benefits to maritime communities and the UK economy.
“We look forward to working collaboratively alongside government to progress this important agenda and reach our shared goals of a cleaner, more resilient maritime sector in the UK.”
Anna Krajinska, UK Director at Transport & Environment (T&E), said:
“T&E welcomes the government’s commitment to reduce shipping emissions by 30% by 2030, 80% by 2040 and net zero by 2050. It is crucial that ambitious targets are coupled with robust policy measures to slash the UK’s domestic and international shipping emissions without delay.”
Geraint Evans, Chief Executive of the UK Major Ports Group, said:
“Major ports are at the heart of the UK’s transition to net zero, acting as hubs of innovation and supporting the development of future fuels, clean maritime infrastructure, and greener supply chains. Today’s strategy provides much-needed policy certainty for industry, unlocking investment in the technologies and infrastructure that will drive down emissions.”
Mark Dickinson, General Secretary of Nautilus International, said:
“As we transition to new fuels, technologies and vessel designs, we must ensure this green revolution delivers for maritime professionals too. A just transition must be at the heart of these changes – guaranteeing quality jobs, comprehensive training and appropriate upskilling for seafarers who will be operating these new systems.
“We look forward to working closely with the UK government in achieving a just transition that supports continued economic and employment growth and prosperity for coastal communities as well as all maritime professionals.”
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