UK sets course for net-zero shipping by 2050

The UK government has released its first domestic shipping decarbonisation targets, as part of the UK’s Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy.
The new publication sets out a blueprint for transitioning the shipping sector to net-zero emissions by 2050, a strategy which aligns with the ambitions of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
Among the high level objectives are a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of 30% by 2030, 80% by 2040, and net-zero by 2050, relative to 2008 levels.
Five key policy measures have been outlined to achieve these targets:
Regulating fuel use. The Government has introduced domestic regulations on maritime fuels, technologies and energy sources to drive adoption of cleaner fuels, like hydrogen, electricity, and ammonia.
Emissions pricing. The strategy includes expanding the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) to cover domestic maritime voyages from 2026.
Zero or near-zero emissions at berth. To address this, the government is considering requirements for zero or near-zero emissions from vessels while in port.
Supporting smaller vessels. The initial focus will be on vessels with a clear route to decarbonisation, such as offshore wind vessels, whereas more difficult to decarbonise vessels may not be required until the mid to late 2030s.
Energy efficiency. A commitment to work with the IMO to identify and agree how energy efficiency measures can be updated and strengthened.