Li, Wenwen and Hu, Zhengliang (2025) Shipping decarbonization governance in Arctic waters: theoretic logic and implementation pathways. Advances in Polar Science, 36 (2). pp. 152-166.
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Abstract
The accelerated decline of Arctic sea ice since the 1980s has paradoxically amplified greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through increased shipping activities in this ecologically vulnerable region. This study investigates how to reconcile the decarbonization of Arctic shipping with conflicting environmental, economic, and geopolitical interests. Through systematic literature review and interest-balancing analysis, our findings identify three systemic barriers: (1) inadequate adaptation of International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations to Arctic-specific environmental risks, (2) fragmented enforcement mechanisms among Arctic and non Arctic States, and (3) technological limitations in clean fuel adoption for ice-class vessels. To address these challenges, a tripartite governance framework is proposed. First, legally binding amendments to International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) Annex VI introducing Arctic-specific Energy Efficiency eXisting ship Index (EEXI) standards and extending energy efficiency regulations to fishing vessels. Second, a phased fuel transition prioritizing liquefied natural gas (LNG) and methanol, followed by hydrogen-ammonia synthetics. Third, enhanced multilateral cooperation through an Arctic Climate Shipping Alliance to coordinate joint research and development in cold-adapted technologies and ice-route optimization. By integrating United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) obligations with IMO Polar Code implementation, this study advances a dynamic interest-balancing framework for policymakers, offering actionable pathways to achieve Paris Agreement targets while safeguarding Arctic ecosystems.
| Item Type: | Article |
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| Related URLs: | |
| Keywords: | shipping, decarbonization, Arctic waters, GHG emission, IMO |
| Subjects: | Natural Environment > Atmosphere Natural Environment > Oceans |
| Organizations: | Advances in Polar Science (APS) |
| Date Deposited: | 03 Jul 2025 14:08 |
| URI: | https://library.arcticportal.org/id/eprint/2899 |
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