EU shipping emissions rose in 2025. The ships did not emit more. The reported increase comes entirely from vessels that entered the reporting rules in 2025; follow the same ships through both years and emissions fell. Below the CO₂ line, methane rose sharply as LNG dual fuel ships reached the water, and from 2026 that methane becomes billable, pushing the maritime EU ETS bill toward 100 million allowances. For owners and charterers, the headline MRV number is only the starting point. The exposure sits behind it.
The full storyCommercial decarbonisation is when commercial players in the shipping ecosystem make carbon conscious shipping decisions in a profitable way. Decarbonising the shipping industry might seem like an overwhelming challenge that is far from a charterers main task. However, for early movers, the challenge can be turned into significant opportunities and competitive advantages.
Shipping emissions will soon have a price tag and the cost will eventually be passed on to the charterers. Charterers who start factoring carbon into their commercial shipping decisions will find efficient ways to reduce shipping emissions whilst safeguarding profitability and gaining a competitive edge.
The European Union is playing an important role in shipping decarbonisation. Here’s a quick guide that fills you in on the most important plans and actions.
