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How charterers optimise strategy and minimise carbon cost

Early movers, who understand how to use the EU ETS as a strategic tool, do not wait for the first surrendering period of allowances but take advantage by engaging proactively. They understand that action must be taken today, as certain expenses are already incurred, and affecting contracts and negotiations.
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August 20, 2024

Early movers, who understand how to use the EU ETS as a strategic tool, do not wait for the first surrendering period of allowances but take advantage by engaging proactively. They understand that action must be taken today, as certain expenses are already incurred, and affecting contracts and negotiations.

Charterers are facing an important moment with the introduction of the EU ETS. This regulatory framework, which mandates monitoring and paying for carbon emissions, imposes significant implications for charterers engaged in time charter or spot voyage contracts. While the requirement to surrender emission allowances is in September 2025, the importance of proactive engagement and strategic planning cannot be overstated. Here are 4 key benefits of proactive engagement:

1. Mitigate carbon cost exposure through proactive management

Effective emissions reporting serves as a critical tool for charterers to mitigate carbon cost exposure. By gathering comprehensive data, charterers can transform emissions costs into a strategical commercial advantage. This proactive approach does not only aid charterers in pre-fixture processes but also assist them in risk management strategies, thereby minimising direct costs associated with emissions.

2. Avoid contractual risk with early planning

Incorporating carbon costs into contractual negotiations is paramount under the EU ETS framework. The principle of “polluter pays” places the responsibility on charterers, necessitating a clear understanding of emission levels to avoid potential claims and disputes with shipowners. As emissions-related costs escalate from 40% to 100% by 2026, knowing your emissions is key to gaining a competitive advantage.

3. Gain competitive edge with market transparency

Transparency in emissions reporting not only fosters credibility but also strengthens charterers market position. Adherence to evolving regulatory standards, including but not limited to EU ETS, demonstrates proactive industry leadership and prepares for the upcoming global carbon cost mechanism considered by the IMO. Moreover, compliance with internal and external reporting requirements, such as those outlined by the Sea Cargo Charter, reinforces operational transparency and reliability. Proactive transparency presents sustainability and build trust with stakeholders.

4. Leveraging emissions reporting for strategic advantage

Navigating the complexities of emissions reporting requires thorough data validation and quality assurance measures. The process involves meticulous data collection, which, if mishandled, can lead to non-compliance. To manage this, it necessitates experts who understand what to ask for and how to interpret the data. This requires substantial time and competence to ensure the insights derived are both accurate and practical.

Given these challenges, it is important to distinguish between two aspects of emissions reporting: reporting for compliance and reporting for insights. Reporting for compliance ensures adherence to regulatory frameworks, preventing legal disputes and financial penalties. On the other hand, reporting for insights transforms data into actionable commercial decisions, optimizing operations and strategic planning.

Siglar Carbon´s advanced technologies enable charterers to excel in both areas. Our reporting system is tailored to achieve accuracy in compliance and provide valuable commercial insights. At Siglar, we apply a two-step validation process, using both modern machine learning techniques and our experienced operations team to ensure high-quality data input. This dual approach not only streamlines compliance with regulatory frameworks but also enhances commercial efficiency. By equipping charterers with actionable insights, we enable them to make informed decisions that drive their strategic commercial goals.

Turn regulatory changes into opportunities by taking action now

The transition towards stringent emissions regulations signals a transformative era for the maritime industry. Embracing the challenges posed by EU ETS today will prepare charterers for future global, regional and national carbon cost mechanisms. Delaying action does not only jeopardies compliance and hinders sustainability, but also leads to negative commercial impacts.

How charterers optimise strategy and minimise carbon cost

Early movers, who understand how to use the EU ETS as a strategic tool, do not wait for the first surrendering period of allowances but take advantage by engaging proactively. They understand that action must be taken today, as certain expenses are already incurred, and affecting contracts and negotiations.

Charterers are facing an important moment with the introduction of the EU ETS. This regulatory framework, which mandates monitoring and paying for carbon emissions, imposes significant implications for charterers engaged in time charter or spot voyage contracts. While the requirement to surrender emission allowances is in September 2025, the importance of proactive engagement and strategic planning cannot be overstated. Here are 4 key benefits of proactive engagement:

1. Mitigate carbon cost exposure through proactive management

Effective emissions reporting serves as a critical tool for charterers to mitigate carbon cost exposure. By gathering comprehensive data, charterers can transform emissions costs into a strategical commercial advantage. This proactive approach does not only aid charterers in pre-fixture processes but also assist them in risk management strategies, thereby minimising direct costs associated with emissions.

2. Avoid contractual risk with early planning

Incorporating carbon costs into contractual negotiations is paramount under the EU ETS framework. The principle of “polluter pays” places the responsibility on charterers, necessitating a clear understanding of emission levels to avoid potential claims and disputes with shipowners. As emissions-related costs escalate from 40% to 100% by 2026, knowing your emissions is key to gaining a competitive advantage.

3. Gain competitive edge with market transparency

Transparency in emissions reporting not only fosters credibility but also strengthens charterers market position. Adherence to evolving regulatory standards, including but not limited to EU ETS, demonstrates proactive industry leadership and prepares for the upcoming global carbon cost mechanism considered by the IMO. Moreover, compliance with internal and external reporting requirements, such as those outlined by the Sea Cargo Charter, reinforces operational transparency and reliability. Proactive transparency presents sustainability and build trust with stakeholders.

4. Leveraging emissions reporting for strategic advantage

Navigating the complexities of emissions reporting requires thorough data validation and quality assurance measures. The process involves meticulous data collection, which, if mishandled, can lead to non-compliance. To manage this, it necessitates experts who understand what to ask for and how to interpret the data. This requires substantial time and competence to ensure the insights derived are both accurate and practical.

Given these challenges, it is important to distinguish between two aspects of emissions reporting: reporting for compliance and reporting for insights. Reporting for compliance ensures adherence to regulatory frameworks, preventing legal disputes and financial penalties. On the other hand, reporting for insights transforms data into actionable commercial decisions, optimizing operations and strategic planning.

Siglar Carbon´s advanced technologies enable charterers to excel in both areas. Our reporting system is tailored to achieve accuracy in compliance and provide valuable commercial insights. At Siglar, we apply a two-step validation process, using both modern machine learning techniques and our experienced operations team to ensure high-quality data input. This dual approach not only streamlines compliance with regulatory frameworks but also enhances commercial efficiency. By equipping charterers with actionable insights, we enable them to make informed decisions that drive their strategic commercial goals.

Turn regulatory changes into opportunities by taking action now

The transition towards stringent emissions regulations signals a transformative era for the maritime industry. Embracing the challenges posed by EU ETS today will prepare charterers for future global, regional and national carbon cost mechanisms. Delaying action does not only jeopardies compliance and hinders sustainability, but also leads to negative commercial impacts.