- Seafarers recognised as key to shipping’s green transition.
- The EU is already advancing with the Maritime ETS and FuelEU Maritime.
- First-ever global framework welcomed by ETF and ITF.
In April 2025, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) implemented a global carbon pricing system for shipping. To come into effect in 2028, the scheme levies a $100-per-tonne charge on CO₂ emissions over targets agreed. The action represents a significant development toward the goal of net-zero emissions from the industry by 2050, reports ETF.
Recognising the Critical Role of Seafarers
The deal also emphasises the role of seafarers in ensuring a successful transition. With the shipping sector evolving to new standards and technology, the resilience, experience, and skills of maritime workers will be at the forefront.
Europe’s Early Action on Maritime Decarbonisation
Before the IMO decision, the European Union had already moved. Maritime transport has been part of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) since January 2024, with full coverage by 2026. Concurrently, the FuelEU Maritime Regulation, to be in force from 2025, aims at reducing the greenhouse gas intensity of marine fuels by 80% in 2050.
Welcoming the First Legally Binding Global Framework
Alongside the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), we welcome the IMO’s historic first legally binding global framework to tackle greenhouse gas emissions from shipping. This global response is essential to secure a sustainable future for the maritime industry.
The Need for Careful Coordination
At the same time, we urge the EU to carefully assess how its regional instruments, such as the Maritime ETS and FuelEU Maritime, will interact with the new IMO framework. Without careful coordination, there is a risk of duplicative or conflicting systems, which could undermine fair competition.
Ports are key terminals in the world supply chain and are crucial to the maritime shift. ETF and port workers have long anticipated a move to a more sustainable industry and have consistently highlighted the requirement for well-balanced policies.
Meeting the Challenges to EU Ports
The ETF has long expressed fundamental concerns regarding risks associated with the existing EU ETS design. There is a genuine risk that shipping activities will move to non-EU ports, undermining climate action as well as local economies.
Global Measures Can Restore Balance
The imposition of a worldwide carbon pricing mechanism provides an opportunity to rebalance competition. By taking action at the global level in coordination, EU ports are able to sustain their competitiveness and remain true to climate objectives.
The EU now needs to make sure that its Maritime ETS and FuelEU Maritime Regulation are compatible with the new IMO framework. Overlap and conflict between regional and global systems must be avoided in order to facilitate ports, operators, and maritime workers during this crucial transition.
A Fundamental Shift for Maritime Workers
The introduction of the IMO Net-Zero Fund and global emissions pricing will radically transform the maritime sector. As the industry advances towards greener fuels and digitalization, the function and role of seafarers will be drastically transformed.
A successful transition has to be founded on robust investment in workers. Training schemes, reskilling on pay, and access to new technology have to be provided to all maritime professionals. Without these investments, the transition could leave workers behind.
Workers Must Shape the Green Transition
Workers are not only required to adjust to new circumstances but actively mold them. Meaningful dialogue with seafarers and port workers must be undertaken in order to ensure that the transition is fair, equitable, and for the common good.
Commitment to a Just Transition
The ETF is prepared to work together with governments, social partners, and industry players to make the maritime transition ambitious and just. All workers must be ready to take the sector into a more sustainable future.
Defending Workers’ Rights and Futures
Maritime workers need to have their rights protected, their competencies valued, and their opportunities widened. They need to be provided with a voice in determining the new realities of a decarbonised industry.
By putting seafarers at the heart of change, we can build a sustainable shipping industry that works for people and the planet. Only if shipping is fair, inclusive, and worker-led will we truly have a green shipping future.
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Source: ETF
