EU Under Pressure to Clarify Stance on Maritime Emissions Regulations
The European Union faces mounting pressure to take a decisive stance on maritime emissions regulations as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) proposes its own Net-Zero Framework system. Industry leaders are urging Brussels to ensure that shippers will not incur fees under both the IMO’s framework and the EU’s existing Emissions Trading System (ETS) and FuelEU Maritime Regulation, reports 24brussels.
The maritime industry demands clarity from the EU regarding potential overlap between the proposed IMO regulations and EU policies. “At this critical juncture, we believe the Commission must send a clear message to the other countries in the IMO process: that the EU … will avoid any double regulation and double payment for the same emissions,” stated Sotiris Raptis, secretary-general of the European Shipowners lobby.
This concern was formalized in an October 3 letter from the European Shipowners to Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas, advocating for a unified message from Brussels ahead of key votes concerning maritime emissions. The letter underscores the necessity of clear communication as the industry adapts to evolving regulatory landscapes.
In August, Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra indicated that the EU would reassess its ETS and FuelEU Maritime Regulation should the IMO standard impose “significant” additional costs on shippers. However, industry representatives argue that this statement lacks the specificity needed for effective planning.
Additionally, major industry groups from across the globe—including Japan, Belgium, the Netherlands, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Norway, and Denmark—recently endorsed a joint statement calling for the EU to adopt a clear position. They contend that Europe, already a leader in shipping climate policy, should communicate a cohesive alignment with the IMO framework following its adoption.
