Shipowners’ Association: Support for the proposal for a Center for Alternative Marine Fuels and Technologies

The Hellenic Shipowners’ Association (HSA) welcomes the timely initiative of the Greek Prime Minister, Mr. Kyriakos Mitsotakis, to propose to the European Commission the establishment of a European Research Center for Alternative Marine Fuels and Technologies for the carbonization of the maritime sector.

“We support the Prime Minister’s proposal for the creation of a Research Center for Alternative Marine Fuels and Technologies in the European Union. With its maritime know-how, long-term experience and scientific training, Greece, as the first shipping country in the world, can substantially contribute to this goal. “We look forward to working with the European institutions and all stakeholders to promote the Greek initiative, in order to support the great effort required to have real environmental benefits alongside a sustainable European shipping,” said the EU President. Theodoros Veniamis.

The Shipowners’ Association has pointed out from the outset the lack of widely available technology that can offer a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships. Without new marine fuels and related technologies available worldwide, carbon-free shipping will not be possible in a timely manner. In addition, the European Commission’s proposal to extend the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) to international shipping is absolutely necessary to be in line with the “polluter pays” principle, which implies the commercial operator’s compliance with the requirements. This principle is recognized in the context of this proposal of the Greek Prime Minister to the European Commission, the EU emphasizes in its announcement.

“We appreciate the recognition of the irreplaceable role of maritime transport for the EU and the world at large, and the recognition of the responsibility of non-maritime stakeholders, such as fuel producers and suppliers, charterers, shipyards and shipbuilding means for de-carbonization. Without their catalytic contribution, the shipping sector will remain trapped in coal and its long-term viability will be seriously threatened,” Mr Veniamis continued.

“We also declare our readiness to cooperate with the international community and all stakeholders in the International Maritime Organization, with which Greece maintains strong cohesive ties. “Greek shipowners are committed to assisting in the decoupling of the shipping industry, as soon as possible, from coal, contributing the most in this direction”, stressed Mr. Veniamis.