On 25 March 2025, the Maritime Minister revealed the government’s new decarbonization stategy for UK shipping, including vessels to be carbon-free by 2050 and incorporating shipping into the UK ETS.
New maritime decarbonisation strategy aims for major emissions reductions by 2050
As explained, part of the government’s Plan for Change to propel the UK towards becoming a green energy superpower and drive growth, the new Maritime decarbonisation strategy sets out goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030, 80% by 2040 and to zero by 2050. This will see the UK match the highest level of the ambitious goals agreed at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in their 2023 strategy on reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from ships.
As part of our Plan for Change, we’re committed to making the UK a green energy superpower and our maritime decarbonisation strategy will help us build a cleaner, more resilient maritime nation
… said Maritime Minister, Mike Kane.
Investment in green technologies to boost UK’s clean energy economy
Investment in green technologies and fuels will cement the UK as a clean energy superpower and encourage a green economic revival at the local level, helping to build high-skilled jobs in coastal communities and delivering a local boon to cities and towns.
Shipping sector to join UK Emissions Trading Scheme under new strategy
Under the new strategy, the shipping sector will be brought under the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS). This will see operators of larger vessels such as tankers and cruises – which cause the most pollution – pay more for their greenhouse gas emissions.
Decarbonisation is both an enormous challenge and opportunity for the maritime sector, with huge potential for growth, jobs and innovation in our coastal communities, and across the whole of the United Kingdom
… commented Chris Shirling-Rooke, Chief Executive of Maritime UK.
New strategy supports clean fuels and technologies for maritime decarbonisation
Furthermore, the strategy sets out plans to reduce emissions from shipping and increase the use of clean fuels and technologies, such as hydrogen, electric or ammonia vessels.
As we transition to new fuels, technologies and vessel designs, we must ensure this green revolution delivers for maritime professionals too. A just transition must be at the heart of these changes – guaranteeing quality jobs, comprehensive training and appropriate upskilling for seafarers who will be operating these new systems.
… Mark Dickinson, General Secretary of Nautilus International pointed out.
UK SHORE funding drives growth and investment in coastal regions
Investment has already seen growth in coastal regions, with the £206 million of UK SHORE funding having already supported over 300 organisations across every nation and region in the UK and secured over £100 million of private investment, helping to kickstart economic growth.
We welcome today’s announcement. UK ports are already demonstrating their commitment to net zero with ambitious targets and investment in new technologies and fuels. The UK SHORE programme shows what can be achieved when government and industry work together on shared goals
… noted Richard Ballantyne OBE, Chief Executive of the British Ports Association. Meanwhile, Geraint Evans, Chief Executive of the UK Major Ports Group, explained that major ports are central to the UK’s transition to net zero, serving as hubs of innovation and supporting the development of future fuels, clean maritime infrastructure, and greener supply chains.
In addition, the government is also launching two calls for evidence to help inform the development of measures needed to reduce emissions at berth, understand the future energy demand at ports and decarbonise smaller vessels.
Need for a robust framework
Rhett Hatcher, CEO of the UK Chamber of Shipping, stated that the government’s strategy must be followed by the delivery of the necessary regulatory framework, technology, and infrastructure, including a shore power revolution, to support the green transition for UK maritime.
Finally, Anna Krajinska, UK Director at Transport & Environment (T&E), welcomed the government’s commitment to reduce shipping emissions by 30% by 2030, 80% by 2040, and achieve net zero by 2050. However, she also emphasized the importance of pairing these ambitious targets with robust policy measures to significantly reduce the UK’s domestic and international shipping emissions without delay.
