US government unveils plan for maritime industry decarbonization
On 11 December, US President Biden unveiled the US Maritime Decarbonization Action Plan, building upon the framework outlined in the administration’s US National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization.
The plan outlines both immediate and long-term strategies to decarbonize the maritime sector, highlighting key actions for the federal government and private sector to address barriers to implementing net-zero solutions.
Moreover, the ultimate objective is to achieve full decarbonization of the US maritime sector, reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This comprehensive plan encompasses all areas of the maritime industry, including ocean-going vessels such as bulk carriers and container ships, commercial harbor crafts, coastwise vessels, and inland waterway vessels like towboats, tugs, ferries, and offshore supply vessels, along with recreational boats.
Progress in zero-emission shipping is already underway. In June, Crowley, ABB Marine, and California Air Resources Board Member Takvorian joined forces to christen the nation’s first fully electric tugboat at the Port of San Diego in California. In July, US launched its first hydrogen fuel cell ferry at the Port of San Francisco in California.
Antonio Santos, Federal Climate Policy Director, Pacific Environment, stated: “The Biden administration stands at a pivotal moment to leave a historic climate and economic legacy by championing the transition to a zero-emission shipping industry. Although we believe the plan could have been more ambitious, by fulfilling its maritime decarbonization commitments, the U.S. can lead by example, proving to the world that it is serious about driving a global shift toward cleaner, sustainable shipping while bolstering economic growth and innovation.”
