Synopsis

70% of global trade by volume (80% by value) is carried by maritime shipping, and 60% of these goods are loaded or unloaded in developing country ports. Maritime transport accounts for 3% of global GHG emissions - equivalent to 6th largest GHG emitting country globally – and rising rapidly. Simultaneously, seaports are highly exposed to climate change impacts including sea-level rise and increased intensity of storms.

Investment in maritime green and decarbonization technologies represents an upfront expense and a new type of investment which may not be readily supported by traditional maritime financing instruments. Financial support is needed to accelerate pathways for zero-carbon bunker fuels to enable industry to make confident long-term investments, and to enable DMCs to adapt port infrastructure to climate change.

ADB recently commissioned a technical study on existing environmental standards and their implementation at selected regional seaports in Southeast Asia. The study covered a total of 13 seaports across three countries, Thailand, Indonesia, and Viet Nam, and examined the existing environmental regulatory setting in three areas including (i) air quality management including GHG emissions, (ii) water quality management; and (iii) solid waste disposal. The study examined the application and compliance of port management to their national environmental legislation and their approach and methodology to the expanding needs for greater coverage and compliance of environmental concerns emanating from seaport operations.