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The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 80th Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 80) is just around the corner and is set to revise the initial strategy for the reduction of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions from ships. 

Months of speculation may soon be put to rest as the session is expected to outline the technical and economic measures to be developed that will set shipping on an ambitious path towards phasing out GHG emissions and aligning with the Paris Climate Agreement goals. As the shipping industry eagerly awaits these developments, it is crucial that companies prepare for potentially stricter regulations and embrace them in the right way. 

Opening of the 80th Session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) at IMO HQ (03/07/2023) (Source:https://www.imo.org/)

Whatever the revised goals that come out of MEPC80, the industry needs to continue efforts to decarbonise now, in order to meet ongoing emission reduction targets. To do so, the industry must continue developing advanced fuels, engines and clean technologies. These developments will take time, so we also need to address areas where we can make a difference now.  To truly become sustainable, the shipping industry must optimise its operational behaviour.  Even with state-of-the-art equipment, emission savings will be capped if a vessel is operating inefficiently. Ensuring optimal operational efficiency requires collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including reputable port agencies.

Working closely with a port agency can ensure seamless compliance with regulations. By engaging with a trusted partner, companies can enhance their operations and thus significantly reduce GHG emissions. An inefficiency which port agents play a key role in minimiSing is the amount of idle time a ship spends outside of ports. By optimising port arrivals, time will be saved and the amount of fuel used will be reduced. Helping third parties reduce their Scope 3 emissions, and the industry to meet its decarbonisation targets.

Protecting the Marine Environment is set to be another key topic of conversation at MEPC 80. Continuing on discussions that took place at MEPC 79, the committee is set to provide clarity on the form of the Ballast Record Book and update current regulations on biofouling. Increased record keeping, and stricter regulation, whilst critical in protecting the marine environment, can become time-consuming. By engaging a reliable port agent, you can guarantee compliance with local protocols and international regulations throughout every port call, ensuring smooth operations. Streamlining ship operators’ workload in order to free up time doing what they are trained in, all whilst remaining compliant. 

As a dedicated partner, we put compliance at the top of our priority list and strive to help companies reduce their overall emissions while avoiding fines. By collaborating with S5, shipping companies gain peace of mind, knowing that their operations align with environmental standards and regulations.