EU ETS Environmental charge

EU Parliament has decreed that from 2024 onwards shipping companies will be part of the Emission Trading System, ETS. The system is part of the “fit for 55” which aims to tackle climate change by reducing the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 55% by 2030 (compared to 1990 levels) with the long-term goal of zero emissions by 2050. Under the scheme the companies will have to pay for annual allowances for GHG emissions.

The ETS covers all emissions on voyages between EU ports and 50% of emissions on voyages between an EU port and a non-EU port. Of Finnlines’ routes, the only 50% line is to the UK, and the UK is in the process of developing its own similar system. Provided that the so-called island exemption will be applied in the Finnish national legislation, the emissions from voyages between Åland and Finnish mainland will be exempted from the ETS.

Unit charges are valid for laden and empty units; lorries, trailers, containers, cars, and self-rolling cargo; it is calculated per starting lane metre. For over width cargo the EU ETS charge is calculated in the same proportion as the over widths surcharge. The charges will be re-evalued quarterly.