Decarbonizing Arctic shipping: governance pathways and future directions

Arctic shipping is a significant source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, including carbon dioxide and black carbon, which intensify climate risks in the region. While the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has established the International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code) to address environmental and safety concerns of polar navigation, it falls short in promoting the decarbonization of Arctic shipping. The collaboration between the IMO and the Arctic Council, along with the contributions of the Arctic Council’s task forces, is essential but requires further strengthening. In response to the climate crisis, the IMO has raised environmental standards, leading efforts to promote low-carbon growth in Arctic shipping through measures such as sulfur limits, heavy fuel oil bans, and reductions in black carbon emissions. Despite these initiatives, the governance of Arctic shipping decarbonization remains fragmented. To achieve meaningful decarbonization, the Polar Code must be strengthened and expanded into a unified regulatory framework. Additionally, enhanced collaboration between the IMO and the Arctic Council is crucial to maximize their collective impact. As a key player in Arctic shipping, China must strengthen compliance with international regulations through updated domestic legislation and Arctic policies. By actively engaging in multilateral mechanisms and developing a port state control inspection network, China can play a pivotal role in advancing Arctic shipping governance and IMO energy efficiency standards, contributing to a more coordinated and sustainable approach to the region’s environmental challenges and global maritime governance.