Shipping emissions surge amidst global trade tensions

The quarterly analysis, Decoding Maritime Emissions, revealed a 19.38% increase in global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to Q1 2024, reaching nearly 60 million tonnes.

However, emissions intensity improved to 206.93 g CO₂e/TEU km, highlighting advances in vessel efficiency despite geopolitical and environmental headwinds.

“Our unique approach to primary data collection sets us apart in the industry,” said Constantine Komodromos, CEO and Founder of VesselBot.

“Rather than relying on secondary sources or industry estimates, we continuously gather and analyse real-time operational data from container vessels worldwide, enabling unparalleled accuracy in tracking emissions, vessel utilisation and operational efficiency.”

Shifting industry

The emissions data points to a shifting industry strategy, with carriers rerouting vessels around Africa due to the Red Sea crisis.

These routes saw the highest GHG emissions but also the highest vessel utilisation, exceeding 80%. Meanwhile, a phased return to the Red Sea is underway, with 130 vessels passing through the Suez Canal and an average capacity of 4,132.7 teu.

VesselBot’s findings underscore the mounting pressure on the maritime sector to balance efficient vessel operations with climate compliance.

The report also shows that Asian ports, especially Singapore, are maintaining dominance, while no U.S. ports ranked among top global hubs.

As trade tensions and environmental regulations intensify, Mr Komodromos said that accurate emissions data and optimisation strategies will become even more essential for sustainable shipping.