Eastern Mediterranean Shipping Sector Raises Climate Goals Amid Implementation Challenges
Shipping companies in the Eastern Mediterranean are increasing their climate ambitions faster than their capacity to implement them, according to the latest METAVASEA survey by HELMEPA. The survey, gathering over 2,000 responses between 2024 and 2025, shows a rise to 22% in companies aligning with the IMO's 2050 net-zero target, up from 14%. However, significant challenges remain, including financial constraints cited by 59% of respondents and limited operational capacity reported by 50%.
Awareness of new regulations like the EU Emissions Trading System and FuelEU Maritime has improved among seafarers, but only 45% have received decarbonisation training recently. Crew fatigue, inadequate training, and unfamiliar alternative fuels persist as safety concerns. Meanwhile, preferences for alternative fuels are shifting, with biofuels favored by 59% of companies, while LNG and methanol usage is declining.
Ports also show weak preparedness, with 73% lacking low-carbon fuel infrastructure. The Cyprus Marine Environment Protection Association (CYMEPA), a METAVASEA partner, is actively involved in training and awareness programs to support the sector's transition. The findings highlight the gap between ambition and practical readiness in the Eastern Mediterranean's maritime industry's decarbonisation efforts.
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