On Thursday 22 April 2021, different communities all over the world celebrated Earth Day to demonstrate support for environmental protection. In recognition of the need to drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions around the world, the US administration announced earlier in the week that it will join an international effort to push for zero emissions by 2050 from the global shipping industry.
Speaking on Tuesday 20 April at an online meeting held to discuss ocean-climate action, John Kerry said: “The US is committing to work with countries in the IMO to adopt the goal of achieving net zero emissions from international shipping by no later than 2050.”
This statement would mean the sector would have to cut its emissions completely by 2050, meaning ships will need to operate using zero carbon fuels and technologies.
The US has not explained yet the exact measures that could be taken and more details are expected to be revealed by the White House in the coming days.