In early October, 2024, 15 members of South Korea’s National Assembly, led by legislator Dae-rim Moon, introduced the Special Act for Supporting the Establishment of Green Shipping Corridors, marking a significant legislative step as the first of its kind globally.
As explained by the NGO Solutions for Our Climate (SFOC), this bill aims to establish zero-emission shipping lanes between designated ports, highlighting South Korea’s commitment to green shipping amidst growing international interest. Green shipping corridors represent agreements among ports to utilize eco-friendly technologies and zero-carbon fuels, ensuring no emissions during maritime transport.
The newly introduced bill emphasizes the deployment of zero-carbon ships on green shipping corridors and allows government support for businesses involved in this initiative. If passed, the legislation is expected to reduce emissions in both domestic and international shipping, enhancing the competitiveness of South Korea’s shipping and shipbuilding industries.
John Yum from Solutions for Our Climate noted the bill’s importance in regulating green shipping corridors and preventing the inclusion of LNG ships, often misrepresented as eco-friendly.
The success of this legislation could significantly influence South Korea’s progress towards its national carbon neutrality goals for the shipping sector and serve as a model for other nations pursuing similar initiatives.
