Originally published on Medium
The EU has led the way in climate justice.
With a big decision coming up at the UN’s International Maritime Organization (IMO) next month on a key climate shipping law, EU countries must choose: live up to their role and push for a universal levy on emissions from global shipping, or let equity sink?
The universal shipping levy is a global fee that could be imposed on greenhouse gas emissions from the shipping industry, and the decision time to impose this is coming up in April – Will it sink or swim, and if it goes ahead – will the fine be enough to make a difference?
We are not just talking about reducing greenhouse gases in line with the International Maritime Organization shipping decarbonisation strategy adopted in 2023. We are talking about making sure the cost of the agreed and necessary energy transition in shipping does not fall unfairly on those who can least afford it.
Without fairly redistributed revenues from a levy, shipping’s clean transition could push these communities further into crisis—especially those that rely on maritime trade for food security.
If Europe fails to support a fair and universal measure at the IMO, it will be making a deliberate choice: to expand the “sacrifice zones” where the low-income groups and the marginalised bear the worst of the planetary crisis, while the privileged shield themselves from the consequences. And do not be fooled, Europe will not be spared.
The good news? European countries have already demonstrated their good-will, by joining a group of +60 countries, including from Africa, the Pacific, the Caribbean and Asia, as well as the industry itself represented by the International Chamber of Shipping, in supporting a universal levy in the last round of IMO negotiations.
But with the policy finalisation coming up on 7-11 April, now is not the time to have doubts. EU Member States must keep their boots firmly planted and continue to back the only mechanism that delivers equity.Sure, there may be other “compromising” ideas on the table to meet the IMO’s decarbonisation goals, but let us be clear—a universal levy is the only true solution to ensure a just and equitable transition.
This is not some distant fever dream. Climate change is happening now. Temperatures are erratic, droughts and floods are devastating food systems, small island nations are fighting for survival, and entire communities are being displaced.
Let’s not kid ourselves—Europe is not insulated from this. Climate breakdown does not respect borders. The cost of inaction will come in the form of food shortages, political instability, and forced migration—realities that will impact every single one of us.
Not supporting a levy is not a neutral stance: it’s choosing to let the most vulnerable suffer while others hope to benefit.
The wheels of the energy transition in shipping are already in motion, and it could bring economic benefits to EU countries as well..A growing global demand for renewable energy in shipping, driven by a levy, would spur investments in clean energy production in the block.
The industry agrees, with one of Europe’s biggest shipowner Maersk backing a $150 levy, which is also what climate scientists and economists argue is the most cost-effective way to help decarbonise the polluter.
As Pope Francis reminds us: “[We] must integrate questions of justice in debates on the environment, so as to hear both the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor”, the only approach must be a social approach. This is not about charity; it is about survival—our collective survival.
European Member States must stand strong in these negotiations, not just for their own citizens, but for all people. This is about family—our global family. The planetary crisis is deepening, and with it, a sense of dread. Many young people have taken to the streets sensing their future is slipping away. They see a world where little works —insurance collapses, food systems break down, and money loses meaning. Even the richest and most powerful are investing in safehouses and dreaming of an escape to Mars. But there is no planet B. The only way out is to fight for a future where no one is sacrificed.
You must act now. European Member States must stand strong and ensure that nothing less than an ambitious shipping levy comes out of the IMO next month. Show your commitment to the people—our people. In the face of ambivalence and hostility, show that you believe in a future for all, as there is no real climate solution without equity, no shipping decarbonisation without a levy, and no climate action without climate justice.
(Image by Freddy from Pixabay)
Posted on: 13 March 2025
