Ports are the hubs of world trade but also centers of concentrated pollution from ships. Science shows us that the 2020s are the critical decade for climate action and, with ships having an average lifespan of 20-30 years, decarbonization of shipping needs to begin immediately. Read our 9-point playbook to take action.
Ports Playbook for Zero-Emission Shipping
The Ports Playbook for Zero-Emission Shipping focuses on three main tracks: commitments, policy, and progress. These tracks lay out nine actions that will end port pollution, accelerate the market for zero-emissions technologies, reward first movers and ensure reliable access to zero-emissions infrastructure and fuels.
The 9-point playbook calls on ports to take the following actions:
- Commitments: Commitments to end all port pollution from ships; create or join zero-emission shipping corridors (e.g., The Clydebank Declaration and LA-Shanghai Green Shipping Corridor); and, abandon all fossil-fuel projects.
- Policy: Set zero-emissions deadlines for all ships; reward first movers and attract the world’s cleanest ships to your port; and, reduce emissions from your existing ship calls.
- Progress: Electrify everything possible; provide clean energy and reliable fueling for zero-emissions cargo ships; and, center community and worker oversight in your energy transition.
Ports are the hubs of world trade but also centers of concentrated pollution from ships. Science shows us that the 2020s are the critical decade for climate action and, with ships having an average lifespan of 20-30 years, decarbonization of shipping needs to begin immediately. This transition is not only necessary for reducing pollution and mitigating global temperature rise; it is also the best way for ports to ensure stable growth and profitability in a competitive industry that demands around-the-clock efficiency in a world impacted by climate change.
The Ports Playbook for Zero-Emission Shipping focuses on three main tracks: commitments, policy, and progress. These tracks lay out nine actions that will end port pollution, accelerate the market for zero-emissions technologies, reward first movers and ensure reliable access to zero-emissions infrastructure and fuels.
