The inclusion of the maritime transport sector in the EU ETS, a comparison with the aviation sector

Abstract

The inclusion of the maritime transport sector in the recent reform of the EU ETS is a major step forward in its decarbonisation process. At the same time, there is the example of the aviation sector, whose experience in the EU ETS has been troubled and has not been able to function as planned from the beginning, largely due to strong opposition from the international community. This scenario brings us to a crucial historical moment for the future of the goals of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, in which the decarbonisation of each sector has become essential. This study analyses the main elements surrounding the implementation of the maritime transport sector in the EU ETS, taking into account the experience of the aviation sector. Moreover, this study aims to analyse extraterritoriality, which is the main characteristic shared by both sectors, and which raises doubts about the legality of such a measure. Likewise, in the application of extraterritorial measures, we analyse how the EU unilaterally pushes for international advances in the field of emissions reduction. In order to conduct such an analysis, the international framework for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions will be studied, all of which is promoted by IMO and ICAO, whose authority may be called into question if they do not adopt more stringent measures.