Article

Amid increasing scrutiny on the shipping industry's contribution to climate change, the Responsible Shipping Initiative (RSI) and DNV have launched a pivotal study titled "Decarbonization of the Short Sea Dry Bulk Fleet," co-funded by the Swedish Transport Administration. The study reveals a significant commitment among Swedish cargo owners and charterers to adopt greener practices. However, it identifies a critical gap in regulatory and economic incentives for smaller tonnage vessels, impeding progress toward decarbonization goals.

Europe's short sea general cargo fleet is confronting an aging crisis, with many vessels approaching the end of their operational lifespan and few new orders in the pipeline. Notably, most of these vessels fall below the 5,000 GT compliance threshold for international and EU emissions regulations. This regulatory gap results in limited motivation for shipowners to invest in lower-emission technologies, thereby posing a strategic dilemma for cargo owners, including RSI members EFO AB, Lantmánnen, SSAB, Stockholm Exergi, and Sádra, regarding future transport capacity aligned with climate objectives.

The project was structured into three work packages (WP). WP1 established emissions baselines for each RSI member through AIS-based modeling, identifying key segments for green fleet renewal. WP2 assessed the costs associated with introducing green ships, evaluating the "green premium" of e-methanol vessels relative to marine gas oil (MGO).

This phase also explored governmental support measures and transport efficiency improvements. WP3 employed a fleet renewal model to determine the necessary pace of renewal to meet climate targets, juxtaposing it with alternatives like biofuel blending and operational efficiencies.

The findings underscore the necessity for actionable short-term targets in contracting to facilitate investments in sustainable shipping practices, vital for aligning with the International Maritime Organizationás (IMO) 2050 decarbonization goals.