Global support grows for emissions charge on shipping sector

A coalition of 47 countries, including the European Union, Canada, Japan, and Pacific Island states, is advocating for a fee on the international shipping sector's greenhouse gas emissions. This move, discussed at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), aims to generate over $80bn annually to fund low-carbon shipping fuels and aid less affluent nations in transitioning. However, opposition from countries including China and Brazil, citing potential economic penalties for emerging economies reliant on trade, complicates issues. The shipping industry, responsible for nearly 3% of global carbon emissions, faces a crucial moment to align on measures to reduce its environmental impact. (Reuters)