IAPH Highlights Support for GHG Reduction Strategy for Shipping

IAPH says it supports the development of a comprehensive strategy for GHG emissions reduction. Image Credit: IAPH

The International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) this week said it actively supports the development of a comprehensive global strategy on the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from land-based and maritime sources, in line with the Paris climate goals.

IAPH says it will use its consultative status within the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to participate in the upcoming 71st session of the IMO's Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 71) where work is set to start on an initial strategy for the reduction of GHG emissions from ships.

"Ports are ready to facilitate the pathway to zero emission shipping," said Peter Mollema, IAPH Vice-President Europe.

"This can be done in various ways, for instance through the facilitation of infrastructure for the supply of alternative fuels, optimising the effectiveness of port incentive schemes, increasing operational efficiency of ports to minimise ship's idle time and the provision of climate-proof infrastructure. What is important is that ports have the flexibility to use different tools and instruments according to the type of infrastructure and traffic they manage."

In other efforts to reduce emissions, IAPH notes that it will integrate its World Ports Climate Initiative (WPCI) into a wider World Ports Sustainability Programme that will extend the scope from climate action to a full range of sustainability port development challenges the industry is facing.

"The new programme will engage regional port associations and international port-related organisations," said IAPH of the programme that is set to be launched during a two-day conference in Antwerp in March 2018.