retos

Autor

Fernando Marcos

Coordinator of the Maritime Transport line at the Repsol Foundation Chair of Energy Transition at the Polytechnic University of Madrid

Fernando

Autor

Laura Calvo

Student in the Maritime Transport line at the Repsol Foundation Chair of Energy Transition at the Polytechnic University of Madrid

Laura

Are Spanish shipowners prepared to face the sustainability challenges demanded by maritime transport?

Maritime transport moves 80% of global goods and is essential in European trade, representing 75% of foreign trade. However, it is also responsible for 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with a significant impact on the European Union.

To reduce these emissions, regulations such as the MARPOL Convention and the European Fit for 55 package promote the use of low-sulphur fuels, as well as the exploration of alternatives such as LNG and biofuels. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the EU also promote measures to improve the energy efficiency of ships.

 

Shipowner Survey: Challenges and Perspectives

A recent survey of 57 professionals in the Spanish maritime sector reflects a high level of awareness of environmental regulations and a marked concern about the costs associated with their implementation. Here are some key findings:

  • 📜 Regulatory Awareness: Most respondents are familiar with the legislation, especially in the fishing sector, which is less regulated in some aspects.
  • 💰 Economic Risk: Regulations require new technologies and training, which raises concerns among companies about rising costs.
  • ⛽ Adoption of Alternative Fuels: In the short term, LNG and biofuels are the most viable options. Hydrogen and ammonia, although promising, require technological advances.
  • 🌍 Carbon Capture: Although seen as a long-term solution, carbon capture faces technical and energy efficiency challenges, and lacks specific regulation.

 

Accelerating the Transition

While shipowners are motivated to adopt new technologies, a lack of detailed cost information and the need for more training are significant obstacles.

Interested in more details about the future of shipping? You can download the full report.