Tag: ESPO

The discussions aim to conclude on an Initial Strategy a CO2 emissions reduction target for the sector as well as potential short, mid, and long-term reduction measures. The EU has recently agreed on a position with regard to the negotiations in the IMO on a CO2 emissions reduction target. 

Ahead the revision of the Reporting Formalities Directive by the Commission, the European Sea Ports Organisation outlined its main priorities and concerns on this upcoming proposal. The implementation of the RFD as it stands does not achieve its main aim, i.e. that of reducing the administrative burden, ESPO noted. 

Ports all over the world are aiming for a future built around sustainable economic models. Thus, nearly 1000 ports and port-related companies committed themselves to achieving the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, during an event in Antwerp, under the auspices of the World Ports Sustainability Program, on 22 March. The commitments made by the international port community are recorded in the historic Charter of the WPSP.

European seaports are currently in need of important investments of around 48 €billion for the period 2018 - 2027. As these investment needs are mostly caused by dynamic and continuous trends, such as the logistics industry development, the port industry and environmental requirements, port investments will remain crucial in the future.

The European Sea Ports Organisation released a position paper to submit to the negotiators, as Brexit has now entered the second phase. With this paper, ESPO calls on the Brexit negotiators to prioritise transport and more in particular maritime transport.

European ports believe that any proposals leading to better enforcement of the obligation for ships to deliver waste at shore are welcome. The compliance of specific elements of the Directive with the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships gains ESPO’s support.

ESPO announced that it welcomes the Commission's proposal. Over the last years, European ports have benefited from investment outside the European Union. Thus, ESPO noted that having an open investment environment should remain one of the basic principles of Europe’s Trade policy.

The French port received the PERS ECOPORTS seal of approval, for a third time, on November 8 in Brussels, during the ESPO General Assembly, for its policy of preserving the environment. The certification recognized the port’s numerous initiatives in terms of sustainable development.

Earlier in November, the European Parliament and the Council reached an agreement regarding the shipping CO2 emissions to align any EU action with the IMO timeline. Many industry bodies have welcomed this decision so far. Recently,ESPO issued a statement to show its support.

In preparation of the review of the existing legislative framework, ESPO underlines that incentive schemes to encourage ships to deliver their garbage at ports must be accompanied by a “right to deliver” that reflects the normal amounts a ship is delivering in a port.