INTERTANKO builds on IMO process with policy statement on GHG emissions from shipping

Published: 18 November 2009 17:42
Updated: 02 December 2009 17:10

Executive summary

INTERTANKO’s policy on Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission reductions from ships, as approved by the Association’s Council, has been written into a comprehensive policy statement that will be used by us as we represent our Members in upcoming international fora discussing GHG emission reductions. This policy will be reviewed and updated, as necessary, based on developments in these international fora.

We believe that the IMO is the appropriate body to regulate GHG emissions from ships and fully support the IMO process to develop real and sustainable GHG emission reduction regulations from ships that will not hinder international commerce. In addition, we strongly support the principle that GHG regulations should be ship/flag neutral.

INTERTANKO advocates measures that would result in tangible CO2 and other GHG emissions reductions from tankers in a positive, proactive manner. We recognise the importance of working with other stakeholders to ensure the maximum efficiency of both new ships and existing ships. To this end we are working with shipbuilders and others on the design and construction of new ships, and with other partners in the transportation chain on the utilisation of ships in service.

We believe that short and long term target levels for GHG emission reductions from ships should be ambitious but realistic, and provide incentives for sustainably achieving them.

We will analyse Market Based Instruments (MBI) against the Association adopted principles and will report the results of its evaluation as soon as the details of concrete proposals become available.

INTERTANKO