Europe’s maritime sector is making progress towards sustainability but needs to increase efforts to meet the European Union’s climate and environmental goals. According to the European Maritime Transport Environmental Report, the sector, which accounts for 3-4% of the EU’s carbon dioxide emissions, must reduce its emissions significantly.

Challenges remain, especially in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, as well as air pollutants like sulfur and nitrogen oxides. The sector also faces issues with methane emissions, which have doubled from 2018 to 2023, largely due to increased liquefied natural gas use.

While the use of alternative fuels has increased, it still needs to grow substantially to meet future demand. Moreover, international guidelines and trained personnel on decarbonization technologies will be essential. The report notes improvements in sulfur oxide emissions, which have decreased by 70% since 2014, and new initiatives like the Mediterranean Sulfur Emission Control Area (SECA) will contribute further reductions. However, nitrogen oxide emissions and marine litter remain concerns.

The report highlights the ongoing need for better management of maritime activities to protect biodiversity, reduce pollution, and mitigate physical disturbances caused by port activities and ship traffic.