Clean Shipping Act of 2025
Summary
The Clean Shipping Act of 2025 aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from marine vessels by amending the Clean Air Act. It establishes carbon intensity standards for fuel used by vessels on voyages involving U.S. ports, setting progressively stricter targets from 2030 to 2050. The bill also mandates the elimination of emissions from vessels at berth or anchorage by 2035, where technologically and economically feasible.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill would require vessel operators to use cleaner fuels or adopt emission-reducing technologies. This could lead to increased costs for shipping companies and potentially higher prices for goods transported by sea. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would be responsible for setting and enforcing the standards.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced greenhouse gas emissions from marine vessels.
- Improved air quality in and around ports.
- Incentivizes the development and adoption of cleaner fuel technologies.
- Potential for the U.S. to lead in international maritime emissions standards.
- Publicly accessible reports on vessel emissions and fuel intensity.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs for shipping companies, potentially passed on to consumers.
- Technological or economic infeasibility of meeting standards may lead to waivers, weakening the impact.
- Potential competitive disadvantage for U.S. ports if international standards are less stringent.
- Compliance and reporting requirements could be burdensome for vessel operators.
- The definition of 'covered voyage' could create loopholes or unintended consequences.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate and foreign commerce. By regulating emissions from vessels that travel between U.S. and foreign ports, the bill falls under this authority. The bill also implements environmental regulations, which are generally considered within the scope of congressional power to promote the general welfare.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).