European shipping emissions jumped 13% in 2024 despite a downtick in trade, while emissions from moving fossil fuels around remain stubbornly high
EU shipping emissions reached their highest levels last year since the EU introduced mandatory reporting in 2018, T&E’s analysis of official EU MRV data shows. A jump of 13% came despite a downtick in EU-related seaborne trade, with disruption of trade through the Red Sea likely leading to longer routes. Last year’s record emissions levels show how important it is that emissions are priced by the EU, says T&E, which calls for an expansion to smaller vessels.
Container ships were the main drivers of increased emissions with a 46% increase. This is likely explained by an 18% increase in the average distance sailed and 3% average growth in operational speeds, as well as an increase in the number of ships needed to service longer routes. Shipping emissions are very sensitive to operational speeds as each 1% increase in speed can result in a 3% growth in emissions.
Agathe Peigney, maritime transport policy officer at T&E, said: “Last year's record pollution shows that even when trade declines, disruption can lead to increased emissions from ships. With the inadequate IMO deal being shelved, the ETS carbon price has never been so crucial.” (....)