Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Seventh Report - Net zero and UK shipping
Environmental Audit Committee
HC 509
Published 29 May 2024
Government response
2nd Special Report - Net zero and UK shipping: Government Response · published 13 Feb 2025
Recommendations & Conclusions
9
Recommendation
Deferred
Para 94
Ensure specific objectives and guaranteed funding for UK SHORE's green maritime technology research.
Recommendation
We welcome the Government’s initiative to establish UK SHORE as a dedicated unit to promote research into green maritime technology and the reduction of emissions from UK shipping. We are nevertheless concerned to note that no specific objectives or targets …
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Government Response Summary
The government partially accepts the recommendation, acknowledging the need for longer-term certainty in policy and R&D, but defers action by stating it will consider how to proceed as part of the next multi-year spending review.
11
Conclusion
Deferred
Para 133
Shipping decarbonisation research funding dwarfed by aviation technology investment.
Conclusion
The provision of up to £206 million of matching funding for research into low- and zero-emission shipping is to be applauded, and no doubt represents a step change in Government investment in the field. It is, however, dwarfed by the …
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Government Response Summary
The government partially accepts, recognizing the need for further R&D. It states it will consider how to take forward this recommendation as part of the next multi-year spending review, deferring specific commitments.
12
Conclusion
Deferred
Failure to guarantee long-term funding for maritime decarbonisation research risks stifling progress.
Conclusion
The Government’s current refusal to guarantee funding for research and development into maritime decarbonisation beyond March 2025 is regrettable. We note that the Aviation Technology Institute has received a guarantee of funding to 2030, no doubt reflecting the importance to …
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Government Response Summary
The government partially accepts, acknowledging the need for further R&D and calls for long-term certainty. It states it will consider how to progress this recommendation as part of the next multi-year spending review.
17
Recommendation
Deferred
Consult on introducing a revenue support mechanism to incentivise UK zero-emission marine fuel production.
Recommendation
We recommend that Ministers consult on the introduction of a revenue support mechanism to incentivise the commercial production of zero-emission marine fuels in the UK. (Paragraph 139) Technical measures to decarbonise shipping: efficiency improvements
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Government Response Summary
The government notes the recommendation, recognising the need for low-carbon fuels but stating more evidence is needed on how to incentivise UK production. They are committed to gathering further evidence on the potential production of these fuels.
22
Conclusion
Deferred
Para 168
IMO existing ship efficiency standards lack ambition; more stringent UK approach offers benefits.
Conclusion
IMO standards for existing ship efficiency provide progressively more stringent measures to require the existing fleet to reduce its emissions. Current measures have been criticised for a lack of ambition. While the amendments to the MARPOL Convention currently being contemplated …
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Government Response Summary
The government notes the conclusion, recognising the need for improvements to IMO short-term measures and committing to push for changes through the ongoing IMO review process. However, it deems it premature to consult on a more stringent UK approach while the IMO review is underway.
23
Recommendation
Deferred
Para 169
Consult on regulating carbon intensity of vessels entering UK ports for 'A' to 'C' ratings.
Recommendation
We recommend that Ministers consult on the emissions benefits to be achieved through regulating the maximum carbon intensity of vessels allowed to enter UK ports, with a view to permitting only those vessels rated ‘A’ to ‘C’ for carbon intensity …
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Government Response Summary
The government notes the recommendation but defers action, stating it would be premature to consult on regulating carbon intensity of vessels entering UK ports given the ongoing IMO review process. It will continue to support the IMO review and explore further domestic measures.