Navigating Energy Transition: a Marine Logistics Perspective

Abstract This paper aims to provide an overview of the current state of energy consumption and carbon emissions in marine logistics, and to explore the potential and challenges of energy transition and net zero practices in this sector. Marine logistics accounted for about 2.8% of all global greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions as per a 2020 IMO study, mainly due to the fact that more than 80% of the world merchandise trade by volume is transported by sea. The paper reviews the literature and data sources on the topic, and analyses the trends, drivers, barriers, and opportunities for energy transition and net zero practices in marine logistics. The paper also presents some case studies of actual implementation of such practices in different regions and contexts. The paper finds that marine logistics is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, and that there is a need and a potential for energy transition and net zero practices in this sector. However, the paper also identifies some technical, economic, regulatory, and social challenges that need to be addressed to enable and accelerate such practices. The paper suggests some possible solutions and recommendations for future research and action. The paper provides a comprehensive and updated overview of the topic and synthesizes the findings and insights from various sources and perspectives. The paper also highlights some gaps and limitations in the existing literature and data and proposes some directions for further exploration and innovation.