Decarbonization of International Shipping Webinar

The latest WMU Alumni Webinar took place on 11 February on the topic of Decarbonization of International Shipping - Global and Regional Perspectives on Achieving Reduction Targets.

Despite the massive global disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic since 2020, there is no doubt that the international community needs to continue its path of implementing the "Paris Accord", an agreement negotiated and adopted within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2016. The "Paris Accord" addresses greenhouse-gas-emission (GHG) mitigation measures, adaptation, and financial matters. For many years, related technical efforts have been continuously at the forefront of negotiations at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) which seeks to contribute efficiently to global climate mitigation measures. As one of the more important recent steps, the IMO adopted its initial GHG Strategy in 2018. This strategy seeks to establish levels of ambition that are subject to ongoing reviews by the IMO. The ambition levels consider potential improvements on vessel design and operational performance as well as the immediate need to introduce low/zero carbon fuels.

The IMO's GHG Strategy has also introduced a list of short-term, mid-term and long-term measures to support the IMO's ambition levels. Short-term measures include the evaluation and improvement of vessels energy efficiency requirement (EEDI, SEEMP regulations), the application of technical efficiency measures for existing ships (EEXI regulations) and the introduction and regulation of carbon intensity (CII) for ships in operation. Mid-term and long-term measures include developing an implementation program for alternative low/zero carbon fuels, adoption of other possible innovations in emission reduction mechanism(s) and market-based measures (MBMs) to incentivize GHG emission reduction.'The webinar introduced the latest developments of short-term measures as agreed under the auspices of the IMO. However, the final focus of the webinar was placed on potential mid-term GHG mitigation measures which are yet to be agreed. When it comes to those mid-term measures, there are a number of different regional views on how exactly GHG reduction targets should be achieved. The webinar discussed the background and reasons for these differing views and provided a potential outlook for 2021.

The webinar introduced the latest developments of short-term measures as agreed under the auspices of the IMO. However, the final focus of the webinar was placed on potential mid-term GHG mitigation measures which are yet to be agreed. When it comes to those mid-term measures, there are a number of different regional views on how exactly GHG reduction targets should be achieved. The webinar discussed the background and reasons for these differing views and provided a potential outlook for 2021.

It was also highlighted during the question and answer session that WMU plays a key role in capacity building, education and research in the field of Maritime Energy Management to support decarbonization efforts of international shipping as well as contributing significantly to achieving the UN targets of SDG 7 focused on affordable energy for all and SDG 13 focused on urgent action to combat climate change. The need for a holistic approach and global cooperation to achieve a low/zero carbon maritime industry was also emphasized.

The webinar was moderated by WMU Professor Aykut I. Ölcer, Director of Research, Nippon Foundation Professorial Chair in Marine Technology and Innovation and Head, Maritime Energy Management. Panellists included WMU Associate Professor Dr. Henning Jessen, Maritime Law & Policy, and Assistant Professor Dr. Anish Hebbar, Maritime Safety & Environmental Administration.

Over 500 participants from 64 countries and all continents registered for the event that was opened beyond WMU Alumni to general registration from the public. To access the recorded webinar, click here.‍

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About the WMU Alumni Webinar Series‍

The Knowledge for Life WMU Alumni Webinar series was launched in 2019 with the aim of keeping WMU graduates connected with the cutting edge research and work of WMU faculty. Many of the webinars are open and available to the public. Previous WMU Alumni Webinar video links are provided below.

‍Understanding the Effects of COVID-19 on Seafarers‍

A Culture of Adjustment Research Report - evaluating the implementation of the current maritime regulatory framework on rest and work hours‍

Covid-19 and Labour: Revisiting the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006‍

Upgrade Your Professional Skills For The Future‍

Search and Rescue in the High North Region‍

COVID-19 and shipping: maritime law and policy highlights‍

The Journey Towards a Zero/Low Carbon and Energy Efficient Maritime Future‍

Transport 2040: The Future of Work