Consequences of applying the EU Emissions Trading System to the maritime transport sector

12.9.2023

Question for written answer  E-002628/2023
to the Commission
Rule 138
Miguel Urbán Crespo (The Left)

The European Dockworkers Council, which represents more than 15 000 European workers, expressed its concern to the committee for social dialogue in the ports sector about the impact that applying the EU Emissions Trading System to the maritime transport sector could have on the economy and on employment in particular.

The implementation of green policies is necessary, but it is imperative that they do not do more harm than good. In the case of maritime transport, a highly competitive sector, it would significantly shrink the economy and, consequently, the number of jobs.

In view of the above, can the Commission answer the following questions:

• 1.When goods start to be moved to other ports outside the EU, what drivers of growth will be put in place to safeguard the jobs and working conditions of the workers concerned?
• 2.When the list of neighbouring ports is drawn up, will the port facilities planned for 2024, which could become enclaves for heavy transhipment traffic, such as Nador West Med in Morocco, be taken into account? In this case, given that new facilities are being built or becoming operational, would it not be more appropriate to revise this list on an ongoing basis?

Submitted: 12.9.2023