Pacific nations are preparing for important negotiations in London aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the global shipping industry. Scheduled later this month, the talks will focus on strategies to cut emissions by at least 40% by 2030 and achieve net-zero by 2050. Shipping accounts for about 3% of global emissions, comparable to major industrial countries.
Led by Pacific Island nations, the 6PAC+ Alliance is advocating for a mandatory levy of $150 per tonne of emissions on all ships. Revenues from this levy would fund climate resilience in low-income and small island states. “We are fighting for our people and our future,” said Vanuatu’s climate envoy Ralph Regenvanu.
However, countries like China, Russia, and several Latin American nations oppose the levy, arguing it would hurt trade. They favour a market-based scheme, where ships could trade emissions credits.
Despite opposition, Pacific leaders like Albon Ishoda of the Marshall Islands emphasize the moral responsibility to act on climate change. “We bring the human face to these negotiations,” he said, stressing that small island nations are the most affected by climate impacts.
The talks, part of the IMO’s ongoing efforts, will determine the future of global shipping decarbonization.
Source: Benar News
