Commission welcomes progress at international level to tackle maritime emissions

The European Commission welcomes progress made within the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to address greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime sector. IMO notably adopted a global and mandatory system to collect fuel consumption data from ships. The European Union and its Member States have been among the main advocates of such a system, as outlined in the European Strategy for low-emission mobility adopted by the Commission in July 2016. Following the international agreement to tackle aviation emissions, reached earlier this month, Friday’s deal is another significant addition to the global efforts to tackle climate change and modernise the economy. Commissioner for Transport Violeta Bulc said: “Three weeks after the aviation deal in Montreal, the momentum for global action on climate remains strong. This agreement is a milestone for a cleaner shipping sector. Data collection is an important first step, and it is very positive that we also started a discussion on a fair contribution of shipping to the climate efforts”. Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Karmenu Vella welcomed the decision on sulphur emissions: “The IMO took a landmark decision. The global cap agreed is fully in line with the sulphur cap already applicable in EU waters under the Sulphur Directive. The decision will significantly reduce the impact of ship emissions on human health and ensure a global level-playing-field for ship operators. I congratulate the coordinated support from EU Member States that was instrumental for the positive outcome achieved”.