Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) met in Holyrood, Edinburgh, to discuss the issue of sustainability within the maritime transport sector. The event was hosted by the British Ports Association (BPA) and the UK Chamber of Shipping (UKCOS), with both organisations coming together to set out plans for net zero shipping and ports.
The BPA and the UKCOS will work together on improving the sustainability of the industry’s practises with the aim of reaching complete carbon neutrality by 2045.
The organisations claim that the Scottish shipping industry is already taking action towards this through research into more sustainable energy and technology. They draw attention to Orkney Harbour, Scotland’s first shore power facility, which is powered by green energy.
Stuart Cresswell, Chairman of the BPA Scottish Ports Group, said: “We are living through a very important time for not only our industry, but for the nation as a whole, as we transition towards the new world of low carbon. It is clear to everyone that Scotland’s Ports have an absolute pivotal role to play in delivering this vision.”
A document released by the two maritime organisations calls for ‘early action’ from the Scottish government to make the goal of net zero shipping in Scotland achievable by 2045. It asks the government to help by investing in infrastructure and encouraging maritime-based careers. The BPA and the UKCOS believe that ensuring the industry in Scotland has both the necessary infrastructure and skill sets will be key if this goal is to be met.
