Rotterdam backs IMO’s climate-neutral ambitions

The Port of Rotterdam Authority has welcomed the ambition of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to be climate-neutral by 2050.
The authority views the new agreements set out by the 175 IMO Member States as an important foundation for climate-proofing the shipping sector.
“Considering the diverse viewpoints of flag states in the IMO, the result obtained is quite an achievement.
“It is important that everyone now has the same perspective on an international scale. We also applaud the ambition agreed specifically regarding an increase in the use of sustainable energy in shipping,” said Eric van der Schans, director of environmental management at the Port of Rotterdam Authority.
The port has been actively supporting and accelerating the energy transition in maritime shipping in many ways.
It has been promoting the use of alternative shipping fuel as a replacement for fuel oil for the past 15 years.
This has led to Rotterdam being one of the main bunkering ports for biofuels, and to methanol still being bunkered this year on a structural basis.
Rotterdam is also working hard on shore-based power for maritime shipping. Together with the International Association of Ports and Harbours – representing the interests of 200 sea ports – the European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO) and smaller alliances such as the World Ports Climate Action Programme, the Port of Rotterdam Authority is working on improving regulations and knowledge at an international level to promote the energy transition in maritime shipping.