EU Parliaments boosts FuelEU Maritime emissions reductions

Parliament increased emissions reductions targets from those set by the Commission.

The Commission’s targets for cutting greenhouse gas intensity of fuels used by shipping were 13% by 2035, and 75% by 2050. Parliament’s proposals introduce a 2% target for 2025, 20% by 2035 and 80% by 2050.

Applying to all vessels over 5,000 gt, the rules would apply completely to vessels operating within the EU, and 50% to EU voyages with an origin or destination outside the bloc.

Environmental groups welcomed the increase in ambition, but noted the greater reductions still fall short of carbon neutral operation by 2050.

Enforcement of the rules would be carried out by applying penalties to those who fall short of the targets, with revenues contributed towards an Ocean Fund for decarbonising the sector and funding relevant research.

EP rapporteur on sustainable maritime fuels Jörgen Warborn (EPP, SE) said: “With today’s vote, we lay out by far the most ambitious pathway to maritime decarbonisation in the world. This agreement strikes the balance between ensuring that our climate targets are met efficiently, while safeguarding the maritime sector's competitiveness and shielding industries and families from rising prices.”

Elsi Katainen, shadow rapporteur for Renew Europe of the FuelEU Maritime Regulation in the Transport and Tourism Committee (TRAN), said: “The Parliament’s position gives the sector a realistic yet ambitious trajectory for the green transition, supports innovations and safeguards European competitiveness. With this regulation the EU will act as global leader towards emission reductions in the maritime sector, which will in turn bring investments and opportunities for the sector.”

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