More than 170 nations agree to halve shipping emissions by 2050

The industry currently represents nearly 3% of global emissions

More than 170 countries have reached an agreement to halve carbon dioxide emissions from shipping by 2050, compared to 2008.

The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) held a session in London last week attended by the countries, with the aim of helping slash the environmental footprint of the shipping industry, which currently represents nearly 3% of global emissions.

The IMO says this figure could reach 10% by 2050 if no action is taken.

It says EU nations and the Marshall Islands supported a goal of cutting emissions by between 70% and 100% by 2050 but this was opposed by the US, Saudi Arabia, Brazil and Panama.

Although this resulted in a less ambitious target, the IMO says it leaves room for further cuts in the future.

EU Transport Commissioner Violeta Bulc said: “The shipping sector must contribute its fair share to the goals of the Paris Agreement.”

The initial strategy would not be legally binding for member states and a final IMO plan is not expected until 2023.

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