Carbon NewsUN Shipping Body Looks to Cut Black Carbon in the Arctic

UN Shipping Body Looks to Cut Black Carbon in the Arctic

Through the International Maritime Organization (IMO), countries are urging ship operators to cut back on carbon emissions when operating within Arctic waters. The goal would be to limit the emission of black carbon by switching to cleaner fuels.

Black carbon is filled with particles that absorb the sun and trap heat. It is such a problem in the Arctic that it darkens the ice – reflecting less light back into space.

According to the Clean Arctic Alliance, black carbon emissions have increased 85% from 2015 to 2019, so immediate action is needed.

Though the resolution to cut black carbon is voluntary, many are hopeful that most private companies will seek to reduce emissions.

Sian Prior, from the Clean Arctic Alliance, said, “If all shipping currently using heavy fuel oils while in the Arctic were to switch to distillate fuel, there would be an immediate reduction of around 44% in black carbon emissions from these ships.”

She went on to say that, “If particulate filters were installed onboard these vessels, black carbon emissions could be reduced by over 90%.”

Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Russia resisted measures to cut black carbon. India and South Africa also resisted – but on the grounds of equity. They feel that wealthier counties should act first and then help them transition to cleaner fuels.

The UK, the US, and Panama were the most prominent supporters.

Though some nations wanted an option for carbon offsets to be included, John Maggs, President of the Clean Shipping Coalition, said, “Most of those who spoke were talking about absolute net-zero…not net-zero with ‘get out of jail free’ offsets.”

With a new global standard being implemented for carbon offsets at COP26carbon offsets may still have a role in cutting black carbon.

The shipping industry currently emits about one billion tons of carbon into the atmosphere annually. However, with increased regulation, carbon offsets, and innovative technology, black carbon emissions can be drastically reduced.

IMO’s goal is to decrease that by 50% by 2050. They are expected to implement a long-term strategy by 2023.



Most Popular



Ultimate Guide



Loading...



LATEST CARBON NEWS

Meta Invests in 650 MW of Solar Energy to Power AI and Data Centers

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has taken another big step toward its clean energy goals through solar. The company announced...

EU Parliament Approves CBAM Changes to Aid SMEs and Cut Emissions

The European Parliament has approved a big change to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). This update makes the carbon import rules of the...

Microsoft Cuts 10,000 Tons of Scope 3 Maritime Emissions with NORDEN Biofuel Deal

Microsoft has partnered with Danish shipping company NORDEN. The tech giant's goal is to cut its Scope 3 maritime emissions by almost 10,000 tons...

EU Greenlights Nearly €1 Billion for Green Hydrogen Projects

The European Union (EU) has approved €992 million in funding for 15 renewable hydrogen projects in 5 countries across the European Economic Area. This...
CARBON INVESTOR EDUCATION

Planting Trees for Carbon Credits: Everything You Need to Know

As climate change intensifies, nations and industries are seeking innovative ways to cut carbon footprints. Carbon credits have emerged as a key tool in...

What is SMR? The Ultimate Guide to Small Modular Reactors

Energy is the cornerstone of modern life. We need electricity for healthcare, transportation, communication, and more. Many countries are choosing nuclear power because it...

What Is Carbon Dioxide Removal? Top Buyers and Sellers of CDR Credits in 2024

The world must remove 5–16 billion metric tons of CO₂ annually by 2050 to limit global warming to 1.5°C. But with emissions still rising,...

Top 5 Carbon ETFs for Sustainable Investing in 2025

Like stocks, investors can buy and sell Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) whenever the market is open. Often investing in carbon credits through ETFs offers a...