United States and Maritime Shipping Emissions Policies (PDF)

Seminar paper from the year 2016 in the subject Politics - Environmental Policy, grade: A, University of Michigan, language: English, abstract: The maritime freight industry is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions. If current practices continue, experts predict that it will account for 17% of total emissions by 2050. Both the United States government and the International Maritime Organization have enacted strict regulations to promote the industry's adoption of alternative sources of fuel in an effort to reduce the amount of sulfur oxides and other pollutants released from container ships. This research sought to connect whether or not the United States and International Maritime Organization sulfur fuel enforcements have allowed container ship companies to catalyze an industry-wide shift in shipping practices.

To answer my questions, I analyzed relevant container ship policies by the United States government within the last ten years as well as regulations in place by the International Maritime Organization specifically addressing sulfur level reduction. I then analyzed the archives of container ship companies in search of sustainability initiatives or alternative fuel adoption underway.

In gathering results, I found evidence suggesting the United States federal government has enacted sufficient standards in attempting to limit sulfur emissions from container ship engines within its coastlines. Additionally, I recognized that the International Maritime Organization is committed to reducing sulfur emissions in the fastest way possible by establishing Emission Control Areas in coastlines as well as instituting tight regulations to limit sulfur content in ship fuel. Third, reports show that the industry is struggling to adopt clean fuel, due to high market costs and demand, but have been able to meet the fuel standards through alternative and cheaper methods.

These results are applicable to only container ships or vessels of that size, as smaller vessels have different engine standards. Moreover, this research was concerned specifically with North American standards, meaning that the same results may not be found in other areas of the world. The research I conducted serves as insight for the public into a relatively unknown aspect of transportation-related environmental issues. It also functions as a platform upon which the dangers of human-caused climate change can be addressed.