Transport decarbonisation plan

The UK Government’s Department for Transport has released its ‘Decarbonising Transport – A Better, Greener Britain’ plan. There are no surprises in the detail, but clear goals are set out to support the industry in achieving zero emissions, and acknowledge the role of ports in doing this.

This report outlines three goals for 2021. These are “to consult on how Government can support the wider deployment of shore power,” to “explore establishing a UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions,” and to “assess how economic instruments could be used to accelerate the decarbonisation of the domestic maritime sector”.

Beyond 2021

Planned for 2022 is a review of the Clean Maritime Fund, as part of which the Government will establish targets for the domestic maritime sector and plot a ‘Course to Zero’ to accelerate decarbonisation. In the same year, the Government will address the potential for a planned phase out date for the sale of new non-zero emission domestic vessels.

2023 will see the Government aims to lead global efforts to secure greater ambition in the IMO’s 2023 revision of its Climate Change Strategy.

The ultimate aim is for the maritime sector to achieve net zero by 2050 or earlier, said the plan.

What about ports?

“Our ports and harbours have a role to play in achieving net zero, by decarbonising their own operations, deploying green, alternatively powered tugs, pilot boats and port equipment from cranes to straddle carriers and reachstackers,” said the Government. “They are critical parts of the wider transport network and will need to act to support the decarbonisation of their customers in the maritime, road and rail freight sectors, as well as the passengers travelling to and from our ferry terminals.”

The Government added: “Driving forward maritime decarbonisation is an opportunity to revitalise our ports and coastal communities across the UK, and one which we must take.”

UKMPG view

Commenting on the release, Tim Morris, chief executive of the UK Major Ports Group (UKMPG), said “Port operators are committed to playing a central role in decarbonisation, both in our own activities and also through the vital enabling role we play in decarbonising other sectors like energy, shipping and freight transport.

“However, moving at scale and pace requires Government to back ambition with significant investment, for example in the case of shorepower. That’s a successful model we see for the maritime sector elsewhere in the world and one we need to see it in the UK. We look forward to working closely with the Government to deliver the Transport Decarbonisation Plan in an ambitious and viable manner.”