SEAaT believes emissions trading system is the fairest to reduce GHG emissions
Major international legal practice Norton Rose LLP and the freight services division of global mining group Rio Tinto have joined SEAaT (Shipping Emissions Abatement and Trading), the industry association dedicated to shipping emissions abatement and trading, as associate members.
In marked contrast to the principal shipowners organisation, the International Chamber of Shipping, SEAaT believes emissions trading system is the fairest, most transparent and effective means of reducing GHG emissions, in particular since it would ensure volume emissions reduction over time across the sector. However it shares some common ground with the shipowners in also believing that shipping regulation must remain within the remit of the IMO and apply to all ships regardless of flag.
John Aitken, Secretary General, SEAaT, said: To have the support of two large international groups is a great step forward for us at such a crucial time for the industry. The shipping industry needs to ensure any regulations introduced are not only good for the environment but also good for business. Norton Rose LLP and Rio Tinto Marine are certain to play key roles in discussions by joining SEAaT.
Philip Roche, London based partner at Norton Rose LLP, said: Emissions from shipping is an issue that has been on the agenda for some time, but were now seeing increasingly onerous regulation on NOx and SOx emissions, and potential legislation in Europe and elsewhere on carbon emissions. Becoming a member of SEAaT will help ensure we can play an increasingly active role in supporting the industry in shaping tolerable and workable solutions.
Michael Harvey, Chief Operating Officer of Rio Tinto Marine, said: The ambitions of SEAaT reflect Rio Tinto and Marines objectives of playing a leading role in establishing an appropriate regulatory framework from which emissions from shipping activity can be reduced.
Source: World Bunkering
