- Apostolos Tzitzikostas, the designated European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, will focus on decarbonizing shipping and securing supply chains.
- World Shipping Council (WSC) supports collaborative efforts to strengthen maritime supply chain resilience and promote sustainability.
- Key priorities include combating illegal trafficking, integrating renewable energy, streamlining processes, and fostering public-private partnerships.
- A fully integrated EU energy and transport network is essential to support low-GHG fuels and enhance competitiveness.
- Coordinated EU and International Maritime Organization (IMO) actions are necessary to establish effective global greenhouse gas standards.
The World Shipping Council (WSC) has expressed its support for Apostolos Tzitzikostas, the incoming European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, as he takes on a pivotal role in securing Europe’s supply chains and promoting decarbonization in the shipping sector. The WSC emphasized the importance of a strong, collaborative relationship with the EU Commission to address the environmental and economic challenges in maritime transport, reports World Group.
Tzitzikostas’ priorities, as recommended by the WSC, should include strengthening the resilience of maritime supply chains against illegal trafficking and geopolitical risks, integrating renewable energy into transportation systems, simplifying customs and administrative processes, and fostering effective public-private partnerships to ensure European competitiveness in the global market.
A Vision for Coordinated Policies in Transportation and Energy
WSC President and CEO Joe Kramek highlighted the need for coordinated policies across transportation, energy, and industry to drive sustainable growth in shipping. Praising the productive partnership with the Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE), he expressed confidence that Tzitzikostas could align policy efforts towards shared sustainability goals that benefit both the EU economy and the industry.
Climate Action and the Importance of Global Standards
To meet long-term climate goals, the WSC underscored the urgency of coordinated EU action with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to establish robust global greenhouse gas (GHG) regulations. These standards are vital to allowing green fuels to compete with fossil fuels, a crucial step in reducing the shipping sector’s carbon footprint.
Advancing Integrated Energy and Transport Networks
A fully integrated renewable energy network is essential to support the EU’s transport needs and ensure a consistent supply of low-GHG maritime fuels, preventing service disruptions and enhancing EU competitiveness. Strengthening the EU’s energy and transport systems will play a key role in positioning Europe as a global leader in decarbonization efforts.
The WSC and its stakeholders are committed to working with the EU Commission to achieve sustainable solutions that benefit the industry and the European economy alike.
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Source: World Group
