(NEWS) EU Emission Trading System - impacts of including maritime transports research project

June

2020

EU Emission Trading System - impacts of including maritime transport research project

The World Maritime University (WMU) has joined with the Swedish Environmental Research Institute (IVL) and Gothenburg University to work on the research project “EU Emission Trading System - impacts of including maritime transport”. Funded by the Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket), the project aims to analyze the consequences and policy designs of including shipping into the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), in order to contribute to a climate-neutral EU in 2050.

Based on a broad set of methods, the two-year project will assess: (i) the potential environmental impact in terms of GHGs and emissions of air pollutants; (ii) the potential economic impact for different segments and commodities; (iii) the potential impact on modal split; and (iv) analyze and present proposals for policy designs. In addition, the project team will follow the discussion and proposals on related climate actions taken by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

WMU will lead Work Package 3 (WP3) which concerns the assessment of potential economic impacts on the maritime sector from the inclusion of shipping in the EU ETS and which will be broken down into different ship segments and commodity groups. In addition to the direct economic impact the qualitative analysis to be undertaken, on how individual maritime actors may be affected by the increased costs and their response to this challenge, will help identify the actors' strategies for managing the effects, particularly in relation to the introduction of green technologies.

WMU’s participation in the project supports its commitment to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals and in particular: Goal 7 on affordable and clean energy; Goal 9, on industry, innovation and infrastructure; Goal 11 on sustainable cities and communities; and Goal 13 focused on climate action. WMU staff contributing to the project include Dr. Aykut I. Ölçer, Director of Maritime Research, Nippon Foundation Professorial Chair in Marine Technology and Innovation, and Head of the Maritime Energy Management Specialization, Dr. Dimitrios Dalaklis, Associate Professor, Maritime Safety and Environmental Administration Specialization, and Dr. Anastasia Christodoulou.

The World Maritime University (WMU) in Malmö, Sweden is established within the framework of the International Maritime Organization, a specialized agency of the United Nations. The mission of WMU is “to be the world centre of excellence in postgraduate maritime and oceans education, professional training and research, while building global capacity and promoting sustainable development”. Its Vision is “to inspire leadership and innovation for a sustainable maritime and oceans future”. WMU is an organization by and for the international maritime community and is committed to the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.

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Dissertation title

Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

My decision to enroll in the doctoral program at WMU was heavily influenced by my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initially introduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education, WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional quality of education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became a compelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student. Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutional offerings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at this esteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with my academic and professional goals.

My research explored the theoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis on maritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the study conducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritime governance—specifically, the implementation of International Maritime Organization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affect the implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, the research aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmly anchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling the intricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMO instruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivated by a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies in maritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of a scarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in the existing body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration, underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area of maritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarly research.

Undoubtedly, a highlight of my educational journey at WMU was the opportunity to forge connections with influential change-makers and thought leaders hailing from every corner of the globe. This invaluable chance to engage with individuals on an international scale has not only enabled me to expand my global network but has also served as a conduit for immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures. Through these global interactions, I've gained a profound understanding of different perspectives, traditions, and approaches, contributing significantly to my personal and academic growth. This experience goes beyond mere networking and has also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections within the Caribbean region from which I hail.

Embarking on my professional path, my foremost aim is to establish myself as an authority in the field of maritime governance. I aspire to leave a significant and enduring mark on the global maritime landscape. Beyond the academic sphere, my drive is fuelled by a passionate interest in pursuing diverse opportunities within the maritime domain and the broader educational sector and contributing significantly to positive transformations in the global maritime sector.

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Studying at WMU provided a multifaceted experience that extended beyond just academics, and there are two highlights worth mentioning to represent this. One, the amazing opportunity for intercultural exchange. I had the privilege of collaborating with researchers and experts from around the globe. This diverse gathering not only facilitated a unique learning environment but also opened doors to share varied perspectives. This exchange was instrumental to my research and learning process and enriched my career path. I found myself collaborating with and even speaking alongside some of the most respected experts in the field on renowned panels. Two, is a particularly exhilarating experience which was representing the university in the UN interagency games in 2022. I was honored to be a part of the first women's team from WMU. Against expectations, I managed to place third in my backstroke category, even though it was my first time participating in competitive swimming. Our team's dedication and hard work culminated in a podium finish, as we secured third place overall.

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WMU's unwavering commitment to maritime education, coupled with its resolute emphasis on bridging the realms of academia and industry, deeply resonated with me. It became evident that WMU was the perfect crucible for my transformation from a career entrenched in maritime operations to one flourishing within academia. The University's storied tradition of nurturing and producing experts and leaders within the maritime sector further solidified its standing as the ideal choice for my educational pursuits.Furthermore, WMU's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to maritime studies served as an irresistible attraction.

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Upon graduation, I was awarded a prestigious research fellowship in sustainability, energy, and the pursuit of net-zero emissions within the maritime industry at the esteemed University of Southampton in the United Kingdom. This exciting opportunity marks the next phase of my academic and maritime journey. I remain passionately committed to continuing my exploration of academia and the maritime sector, building upon the invaluable knowledge and experience I acquired during my time at WMU. My primary objective is to contribute significantly to the advancement of the zero-emission maritime industry, a pivotal and transformative sector within our global community.

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