EU shipping emissions reached their highest levels last year since the EU introduced mandatory reporting in 2018, T&E’s analysis of official EU MRV data shows. A jump of 13% came despite a downtick in EU-related seaborne trade, with disruption of trade through the Red Sea likely leading to longer routes. Last year’s record emissions levels show how important it is that emissions are priced by the EU, says T&E, which calls for an expansion to smaller vessels.
Container ships were the main drivers of increased emissions with a 46% increase. This is likely explained by an 18% increase in the average distance sailed and 3% average growth in operational speeds, as well as an increase in the number of ships needed to service longer routes. Shipping emissions are very sensitive to operational speeds as each 1% increase in speed can result in a 3% growth in emissions.
Agathe Peigney, maritime transport policy officer at T&E, said: “Last year's record pollution shows that even when trade declines, disruption can lead to increased emissions from ships. With the inadequate IMO deal being shelved, the ETS carbon price has never been so crucial.”
The ETS for shipping has now been in place for almost two years and is proving effective, with around 99% compliance already in the first year. The upcoming review is a chance for the EU to stay the course on maritime climate regulation by strengthening and extending the system to ensure all polluters pay their fair share, says T&E.
MSC remains the most polluting shipping company in the EU, responsible for 15.6 million tonnes of CO2. Outside of the container lines, Grimaldi Group was the largest emitter (3.8 Mt), while Carnival had the highest emissions of any cruise company (2.5 Mt).
Despite Europe using ever more renewable energy, imports of fossil fuels remain stubbornly high. Fossil fuel carriers continue to make up around 20% of all EU shipping emissions, similar to 2018 levels. Emissions from LNG carriers have been growing since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but did decrease in 2024. Emissions from transporting crude oil rose to 2019 highs.
"Transporting fossil fuels around represents a double climate blow. Ending our dependency on fossil fuels would remove a chunk of shipping emissions, but that leaves over 80% of emissions still to be decarbonised. Efficiency and green hydrogen-based fuels will be needed to get to zero”, concludes Agathe Peigney.
