Regulatory Focus
Translating regulatory complexity into actionable shipping strategy
The Regulatory Landscape
European and international maritime sustainability regulation is evolving rapidly. New frameworks are being introduced, existing rules are being amended, and compliance requirements are becoming increasingly complex.
VIRISEA acts as a translator between regulation and shipping reality. We monitor regulatory developments, analyse their implications, and provide clear guidance on compliance obligations and strategic options.
Key Regulatory Areas
Our expertise covers the full spectrum of maritime sustainability frameworks
FuelEU Maritime Regulation
Extension of the EU ETS to cover CO2 emissions from large ships calling at EU ports.
Key Provisions
Gradual reduction targets for GHG intensity of marine fuels (2% by 2025, up to 80% by 2050), pooling mechanisms, use of renewable fuels of non-biological origin (RFNBOs) multipliers, and penalties for non-compliance.
Impact on Shipping
Requires shipowners and operators to monitor and report fuel consumption and GHG emissions, invest in cleaner fuels or technologies, and adapt operational strategies to meet intensity targets. Significant financial implications for non-compliance.
How VIRISEA Can Help
VIRISEA translates FuelEU Maritime into actionable strategies, assisting with compliance planning, GHG intensity calculations, fuel procurement strategies, and navigating the pooling and penalty mechanisms.
Regulatory Body
European Union
Related Services
• FuelEU Maritime Compliance Strategy
• Decarbonisation Pathway Planning
• Alternative Fuels Feasibility & Compliance
• Regulatory Impact Assessment & Foresight
EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) for Shipping
Extension of the EU ETS to cover CO2 emissions from large ships calling at EU ports.
Key Provisions
Phased-in surrender of EU Allowances (EUAs) for 100% of emissions on intra-EU voyages and 50% on extra-EU voyages. Applies to vessels over 5,000 gross tonnage. Revenues from EUA sales partially fund maritime decarbonisation.
Impact on Shipping
Introduces a direct cost for CO2 emissions, requiring shipowners to purchase and surrender EUAs. Impacts operational costs, charter party agreements, and necessitates robust emissions monitoring and reporting systems.
How VIRISEA Can Help
VIRISEA advises on EU ETS compliance, emissions monitoring, reporting and verification (MRV), EUA procurement strategies, and integrating carbon costs into commercial decisions to mitigate financial exposure.
Regulatory Body
European Union
Related Services
• EU ETS Emissions Management
• Regulatory Impact Assessment & Foresight
IMO GHG Strategy
International Maritime Organization’s strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping.
Key Provisions
Revised strategy aims for net-zero GHG emissions by or around 2050, with indicative checkpoints for 2030 and 2040. Includes technical measures like EEXI (Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index) and operational measures like CII (Carbon Intensity Indicator).
Impact on Shipping
Requires continuous improvement in fleet energy efficiency and carbon intensity. EEXI mandates technical upgrades, while CII rates ships based on operational efficiency, potentially impacting charterability and asset value.
How VIRISEA Can Help
VIRISEA assists with understanding and implementing IMO GHG measures, including EEXI compliance, CII optimization strategies, and preparing for future mid-term measures and market-based mechanisms.
Regulatory Body
International Maritime Organization (IMO)
Related Services
• Decarbonisation Pathway Planning
• Regulatory Impact Assessment & Foresight
Alternative Fuels & Technologies Frameworks
Evolving regulatory landscape for the safe and sustainable adoption of new marine fuels and propulsion technologies.
Key Provisions
Development of IGF Code amendments for new fuels (e.g., ammonia, hydrogen, methanol), safety guidelines, port bunkering regulations, and lifecycle GHG emission assessment methodologies (e.g., FuelEU Maritime's well-to-wake approach).
Impact on Shipping
Requires significant investment in new vessel designs, bunkering infrastructure, and crew training. Navigating diverse and sometimes conflicting international and regional standards for safety and environmental performance is critical.
How VIRISEA Can Help
VIRISEA provides expertise on the regulatory readiness for alternative fuels, including safety standards, environmental performance criteria, and compliance pathways for new vessel constructions or retrofits.
Regulatory Body
European Union
Related Services
• EU ETS Emissions Management
• Regulatory Impact Assessment & Foresight
Regulatory Monitoring
The regulatory landscape is not static. New frameworks are introduced, existing rules are amended, and implementation guidance evolves. Staying informed is essential for effective compliance planning.
VIRISEA maintains continuous monitoring of regulatory developments affecting maritime sustainability. We analyse proposed changes, assess their implications, and provide timely updates to help you anticipate and prepare for new requirements.
Our Regulatory Coverage
- European Union maritime sustainability frameworks
- International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations
- Carbon pricing mechanisms and emissions trading
- Fuel quality and greenhouse gas intensity standards
- Alternative fuel regulations and safety frameworks
- Reporting and verification requirements
Navigate Regulatory Complexity
Contact us to explore how our advisory services can support your compliance and sustainability strategy.