Ian TaylorThe dry bulk shipping association INTERCARGO has called on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to aim for ‘simplicity’ in the mid-term GHG measures being discussed at the IMO/ISWG-GHG 17 meeting this week.
In a statement sent to ship.energy today (23 September), INTERCARGO’s Secretary General Kostas Gkonis, urged: ‘The path to shipping’s decarbonisation must be paved with practical, implementable solutions.’
Outlining its objectives for the upcoming discussion at the IMO HQ, INTERCARGO said that it endorses in principle the updated joint proposal by Bahamas, Liberia, and the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) for an ‘IMO net-zero framework’, and is backing a simplified pricing mechanism based on a flat-rate contribution per tonne of GHG emitted with incentives for zero and near-zero GHG fuel usage.
In line with its calls for simplicity, INTERCARGO is advocating for fixed annual GHG fees over minimum five-year periods which it believes will provide ‘predictability for stakeholders’, and for streamlined processes for shipping facing global compliance challenges in accessing safely green energy sources in ports around the world.
The association added that it supports a comprehensive emissions accounting system while addressing concerns about upstream emissions beyond shipping’s control and also endorses the principle that ‘charterers or commercial operators, as fuel cost bearers, should also cover GHG fees and compliance costs’.
INTERCARGO called for a ‘cautious approach’ to a decarbonisation fund, which takes into account the need for a thorough review of legal issues and alignment with UN climate fund principles.
Gkonis added: ‘Our support for these measures reflects our sector’s commitment to environmental responsibility whilst maintaining operational efficiency and smooth global transportation of essential goods.’
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Tom Barlow-Brown
