The upcoming review of the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) by the European Commission, expected in July, is seen as a pivotal moment for the future of maritime transport.
MEP Sérgio Gonçalves met with representatives from Hub Azul Portugal and Fórum Oceano to discuss the impact of European decarbonization rules on ultra-peripheral and island territories. Gonçalves advocates for a permanent exemption for these regions, arguing that associated maritime emissions are negligible at the European level, but additional costs could significantly affect local economies.
Madeira, reliant on maritime transport for essential goods and exports, could face increased logistical costs, impacting the cost of living and business competitiveness. Hub Azul Portugal, funded by the PRR, aims to support the decarbonization of the blue economy but faces challenges such as financing, regulatory complexity, and the coordination of European funds to scale sustainable solutions.
