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UK Marine Services Ltd

UK ETS to Cover Maritime Emissions from 2026: What Vessel Owners Need to Know


At a Glance


  • From 1 July 2026, maritime emissions enter the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS).

  • Initially applies to ships above 5,000 GT, covering both in-port and voyage emissions.

  • Vessel owners must monitor, verify, and report emissions, then buy permits to cover CO₂ output.

  • Fuel strategy matters: sustainable fuels (like HVO and hybrids) can cut costs and future-proof operations.

  • Surveyors and operators should prepare now by integrating emissions checks into maintenance and planning.


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The UK government has confirmed that maritime emissions will be included in the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS) from 1 July 2026.


This change is a significant step in the UK’s wider strategy to reduce carbon emissions across transport and industry.


For the first time, vessel operators will need to account for and pay for their carbon footprint under the same system that already applies to power stations, factories, and aviation.


Although the initial focus is on ships above 5,000 gross tonnage (GT) operating between UK ports, this expansion will have wider implications for the entire maritime sector — including surveyors, smaller operators, and private owners.





What the UK ETS Means for Maritime


The UK ETS is a cap-and-trade system. A cap is set on the total amount of carbon emissions allowed. Companies are issued permits (also called allowances), and every tonne of CO₂ emitted must be matched by one permit.


  • If a company emits less than its allowance, it can sell spare permits.

  • If it emits more, it must buy additional permits on the market.


For shipping, this means operators will now need to:


  • Prepare an emissions monitoring plan

  • Appoint independent verifiers

  • Submit annual emissions data

  • Buy permits to cover those emissions


This adds a new cost layer to vessel operations, particularly for ships burning heavy marine fuel oil.



Why This Matters to UK Vessel Owners


Even if your vessel falls below the initial 5,000 GT threshold, there are good reasons to pay attention:


  1. Regulation creep – historically, environmental rules start with large operators and expand to smaller ones. It’s highly likely the scope of UK ETS will widen over time.


  2. Client expectations – corporate and commercial clients are already looking for greener supply chains. Vessel owners with a sustainability plan may win more contracts.


  3. Fuel efficiency pays twice – it reduces fuel bills and lowers ETS exposure for larger vessels.



The Role of Marine Surveyors


Surveyors may soon be called on to advise clients on compliance readiness.


This could include:


  • Assessing current fuel systems and efficiency levels

  • Recommending sustainable retrofit options (hybrid/electric, HVO biofuels)

  • Supporting documentation and record-keeping for emissions monitoring


In other words, surveys will increasingly need to go beyond safety and seaworthiness, and into sustainability and compliance assurance.



Preparing Now: Practical Steps


1. Review your fuel strategy


  • Consider alternative fuels like HVO or biofuel blends

  • Investigate hybrid or electric propulsion if feasible

  • Monitor developments in green hydrogen and ammonia as longer-term options


2. Strengthen maintenance planning


  • Ensure your vessel is operating at peak efficiency (clean hull, serviced engines, optimised propellers)

  • Build emissions monitoring into scheduled survey and maintenance routines


3. Stay informed about funding


  • Government schemes such as the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition provide financial support for greener upgrades

  • Local partnerships (e.g. Medway/Swale councils) may release regional grants for sustainable transport



How UK Marine Can Support



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At UK Marine Services, we combine decades of experience with up-to-date knowledge of industry regulations. Our team can:


  • Explain new rules clearly and what they mean for your vessel


  • Provide surveys and reports that support compliance and documentation


  • Advise on efficiency and sustainability upgrades to future-proof your operations





Whether you operate a commercial vessel or manage a private craft, staying ahead of regulation reduces risk and keeps you competitive.


FAQs

When does the UK ETS apply to shipping?

From 1 July 2026.


Which vessels are included?

Initially, ships above 5,000 GT operating between UK ports.


Will smaller vessels be affected?

Not straight away — but it’s very likely in the future.


Why does fuel choice matter?

Sustainable fuels may reduce ETS costs and demonstrate compliance with upcoming regulations.


How can UK Marine Services help?

We offer survey support, compliance guidance, and advice on sustainable refits.



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