The Conversation Weekly
Shipping produces 3% of global emissions. How to get that down, quickly
Published: 27 March 2025 at 10:30 Europe/London
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Episode notes
Ships transport around 80% of the world’s cargo. From your food, to your car to your phone, chances are it got to you by sea. The vast majority of the world’s container ships burn fossil fuels, which is why 3% of global emissions come from shipping – slightly more than the 2.5% of emissions from aviation.
The race is on to reduce these emissions, and quickly, to meet the Paris agreement targets. In this episode we find out what technologies are available to shipping companies to reduce their carbon emissions – from sails, to alternative fuels or a 'Google maps for the ocean'. Featuring Daniel Precioso, post-doctoral researcher at IE University in Spain and Alice Larkin, Professor of Climate Science and Energy Policy, University of Manchester.
This episode was written and produced by Gemma Ware with assistance from Mend Mariwany. Sound design was by Eloise Stevens and theme music by Neeta Sarl. Read the full credits for this episode and sign up here for a free daily newsletter from The Conversation.
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- Sails and satellite navigation could cut shipping industry’s emissions by up to a third
- Global shipping is under pressure to stop its heavy fuel oil use fast – that’s not simple, but changes are coming
- Five ways to cut emissions from shipping
