Today, the European Commission published an assessment impact on the possible paths to reach the the agreed goal of making the European Union climate-friendly by 2050 and, on the basis of this analysis, recommended a net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of 90% by 2040 compared to 1990 levels, initiating a discussion with all stakeholders. The European Commission has announced whereas a specific legislative proposal will be presented by the the next EU executive body to take office after the European elections.

The evaluation was welcomed by the European Shipowners' Association ECSA, in particular for attention paid to the needs of the shipping. In particular, today's Communication from the Commission the Parliament, the Council of the EU, the Economic and Social Committee and the European Committee of the Regions, specifies that, "as agreed in 2023, the Commission will assess in 2026 the an extension of carbon pricing for the aviation and aviation sectors. maritime. Addressing barriers to fuel uptake low- or zero-emission alternatives (including and advanced biofuels) in the aviation sector and maritime authorities and give them priority access to these compared to sectors that have access to other solutions decarbonisation, such as direct electrification - underlines the European Commission's document - will allow these sectors to contribute to the EU's climate objectives and the global climate change".

ECSA also appreciated the fact that - explained the association - 'the Commission recognises that the increase in sustainable fuel costs is a key factor in the competitiveness of maritime transport and is committed to taking considering regulatory measures to encourage their production'. In this regard, the Communication of the EU Commission, noting that "decarbonise transport so that we continue to ensuring availability and accessibility will require significant investments in both new assets (zero-carbon and high-end vehicles) aircraft, ships, railway equipment) and in infrastructure for refuelling and recharging", he specifies whereas, 'at the same time, the costs of renewable fuels and low carbon emissions should not be underestimated and remain a key factor for the competitiveness of the transport operators, in particular in the maritime and airplane. Ensuring that sufficient production of sustainable fuels is made available through dedicated measures, including of a regulatory nature where necessary - highlights the communication of the Commission - is essential to achieve the objectives set in a cost-effective way."

"It's the first time," commented the secretary General of the European Community Shipowners' Associations, Sotiris Raptis – which we see such a strong commitment to giving the maritime transport: priority access to low- and low-carbon fuels. such as advanced biofuels and e-fuels. The The price gap - Raptis recalled - is immense, given that The cost of sustainable fuels can be four times higher than the fuels currently used in the Shipping. We look forward to working with the Commission to translate this commitment into immediate action and to take advantage of the ETS revenues allocated through dedicated calls already under the current Innovation Fund'.

In addition, ECSA appreciated the fact that 'the recognises the need for Europe to become more attractive for private investment. Over the last 15 Over the years, the association recalled, European funding for the development of shipping have been steadily decreasing, with shipping companies Navigation forced to look for funding opportunities elsewhere. Unlocking private investment through EU markets capital, as proposed in the Communication, ECSA noted It is a good step forward. However, it is essential that This is accompanied by an appropriate framework for the bank financing, which is particularly important for SMEs in the maritime sector'.