UK's Focus on Decarbonising Domestic Maritime Transport: Implications and Pathways to Decarbonisation
Key Ideas
  • The UK DfT's Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy aims for zero fuel lifecycle GHG emissions in domestic maritime transport by 2050, with clear reduction targets by 2030 and 2040.
  • Focus is on vessels below 400 GT that can decarbonize quickly, like offshore wind operations vessels, inland waterways vessels, recreational craft, small ferries, aquaculture vessels, and port service vessels.
  • The strategy highlights the importance of addressing emissions from smaller vessels, projecting substantial emissions cuts by 2050 and emphasizing the need for targeted policies.
  • Businesses operating in the identified subsectors should start working on decarbonisation roadmaps and exploring suitable propulsion system technologies to align with future government policies.
The UK Department for Transport has unveiled a Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy focusing on reducing the carbon impact of domestic maritime transport. The strategy targets achieving zero fuel lifecycle GHG emissions in this sector by 2050, with interim reduction goals set for 2030 and 2040. A call for evidence has been issued to gather insights for policy-making related to decarbonising smaller vessels below 400 gross tonnage. The strategy outlines the definition of domestic maritime transport, covering voyages between UK ports, inland waterways, and sea-going vessels within the UK Exclusive Economic Zone. Key vessels to be impacted by this strategy include offshore wind operations vessels, inland waterways vessels, recreational craft, small ferries, aquaculture vessels, and port service vessels. The strategy emphasizes the significance of targeting smaller vessels below 400 GT, projecting substantial emissions reductions by 2050. The report acknowledges vessels that might face challenges in decarbonisation pathways, stressing the importance of their role in the overall strategy. The focus on smaller vessels is essential as they are projected to contribute significantly to domestic maritime emissions in the coming years. Despite challenges in monitoring these vessels due to size limitations for tracking systems, targeted policies are seen as crucial in achieving emissions reduction goals. The strategy calls for businesses in these maritime subsectors to prepare decarbonisation roadmaps and consider suitable propulsion technologies. Ricardo, a global engineering company, offers support for businesses navigating decarbonisation challenges in the maritime sector. Their services range from strategy and advisory support to the development of decarbonisation solutions, including fuel cell and hydrogen ICE technologies. Businesses are encouraged to engage with Ricardo to explore how to align with future decarbonisation policies and reduce environmental impacts across their product portfolios.
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