UN Cargo Shipping Rule Disappoints

The UN body overseeing the global cargo shipping industry on Friday agreed to new rules governing ocean cargo vessels that fall short of curbing the industry’s contributions to climate change-causing pollution. The rules were met with a mixed reaction, hailed by some parties as a needed step forward but lacking adequate ambition and specificity. The International Maritime Organization concluded two weeks of negotiations on Friday with a target of net-zero emissions by “around” 2050, about a decade later than experts say is required in order to limit global warming to 1.5°C. The nonbinding agreement asks the industry to cut emissions by 20% by 2030 and 70% by 2040, while “striving” for 30% and 80%, respectively, by those deadlines. However, the Science Based Targets initiative estimates the industry should instead by targeting cuts of 45% by 2030 and net-zero in 2040. “This week’s climate talks were reminiscent of rearranging the deckchairs on a sinking ship,” said Faïg Abbasov, shipping programme director for the Brussels-based Transport & Environment. “The IMO had the opportunity to set an unambiguous and clear course towards the 1.5ºC temperature goal, but all it came up with is a wishy-washy compromise.” Washington Post $, Grist, Canary Media, Climate Home, The Guardian, TIME,New York Times, The Hill, Politico Pro $)