The transition to zero-emission shipping is a complex and challenging process with many stakeholders involved – shipping companies, transport buyers, bunker operators, fuel producers, ports and regulatory authorities to name a few. One way to accelerate decarbonization in shipping is to establish green corridors – trade routes between ports where zero-emission solutions are supported.

At the Sustainable Maritime Transport Forum, held at Gothenburg’s Frihamnsdagarna festival on 31 August, the Ports of Gothenburg and Rotterdam shared progress on their joint efforts to promote alternative fuels within their green corridor. High-level speakers from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the European Community Shipowners’ Association (ECSA) also addressed the audience of academics, shipowners, and journalists. 

Various green fuel alternatives, such as methanol, ammonia storage, and biofuels, are being explored. The ports are making concrete steps to increase their availability in the harbors. To this day, 99 percent of global shipping is still powered by fossil fuels. Legal frameworks are needed. 
A positive momentum is building with new EU climate measures and the IMO’s revised GHG strategy, which aims to create a level playing field for clean technologies. Solutions include promoting investments in more efficient ships, implementing fuel-use reporting, and gradually phasing out fossil fuel subsidies. The green transition should be just and equitable, ensuring that smaller companies are not overshadowed by larger conglomerates. Investing in green innovation increases our competitiveness and benefits the shipping sector, as well as our countries.

The forum was especially meaningful as it coincided with Gothenburg’s 400-year anniversary, celebrating the city's Dutch-influenced origins. It also built upon the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Ports of Gothenburg and Rotterdam during the State Visit in 2022. This partnership positions both countries as first movers in sustainable shipping, setting an example for ports worldwide.