Greenhouse Gases (GHG) and Maritime Shipping

The link between greenhouse gases (GHG) and maritime shipping has been studied in depth. Although shipping is one of the more environmentally sound ways to transport goods around the world — at least compared to aircraft and road vehicles — ships still emit a significant amount of greenhouse gases, thought to be a major contributor to air pollution and possibly global warming.

International Maritime Organization Study: Shipping and GHG

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) sponsored the 'Second IMO GHG Study 2009,' the outcome of which includes findings that:

International shipping accounted for approx. 2.7% of the global emissions of greenhouse gases in 2007.
Shipping (both international and domestic) accounted for 3.3% of the GHG emissions in 2007.
Ships' exhaust gases, including carbon dioxide (CO2), are the primary source of the shipping industry's GHG emissions.
Unless changes aimed at GHG reduction are made in the maritime industry (especially international shipping), GHG emissions may increase by 150%–250% by the year 2050.
Fortunately, technical means to reduce GHG emissions (e.g., electronic monitoring of GHG, other monitoring equipment, operational measures) have been identified.
Financial incentives to induce shipping companies to reduce GHG emissions may also be effective.

Recommendations from the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC)

The IMO also oversees a Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC), which met in July 2009 to debate on potential incentives for the maritime industry regarding the reduction of GHG. The committee delegates agreed on a number of technical measures that will be adopted at least temporarily, in anticipation of the 2010 MEPC meeting. The process of change is slower than many would like, to be sure.

Personnel Who Can Act to Reduce Shipping GHG Emissions

Some ship models and designs emit lower levels of GHG than others, and older or irregularly serviced ships are in particular need of updating (or junking) based on their GHG emissions. There are many people at maritime companies who can act to reduce harmful GHG emissions. These include:

charterers
classification societies
marine engineers
marine equipment manufacturers
marine surveyors
maritime administrations
naval architects
ship managers
shipbuilders
ship owners/operators

Discuss Your Concerns with a Maritime Lawyer

Whatever your circumstances regarding a maritime issue, it is in your best interest to consult an experienced maritime attorney who will be able to thoroughly investigate the details of your case and determine whether you have a legitimate claim. Your questions will be addressed and your legal options will be explained. To schedule a private, no obligation consultation, contact us today.

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Greenhouse Gases (GHG) and Maritime Shipping

International Maritime Organization Study: Shipping and GHG

Recommendations from the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC)

Personnel Who Can Act to Reduce Shipping GHG Emissions

Discuss Your Concerns with a Maritime Lawyer

Other Areas of Law