Top 20 Financial Incentives for Green Shipping: How to Cut Costs & Stay Ahead

Going green isn’t just about compliance, it’s also about saving money. Shipowners who invest in sustainability can tap into millions in grants, tax breaks, and financing programs designed to cut costs and boost efficiency. From carbon credits in Europe to tax incentives in Singapore, these 20 financial incentives offer real, actionable ways for shipowners to offset the costs of decarbonization.

Want to make your fleet greener while keeping more money in your pocket? Here’s where to start.

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1️⃣ EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) for Shipping

The EU ETS is a cap-and-trade system that, since January 2024, includes CO₂ emissions from large ships (over 5,000 gross tonnage) entering EU ports. Shipowners must monitor and report emissions and surrender allowances corresponding to their CO₂ output. This system financially incentivizes emission reductions.

Key Points:

  • Phase-In Period:
    • 2025: Surrender allowances for 40% of 2024 emissions.
    • 2026: Surrender allowances for 70% of 2025 emissions.
    • 2027 onward: 100% of emissions covered.
  • Scope: Covers 100% of emissions between EU ports and 50% of emissions on voyages between EU and non-EU ports.
  • Financial Impact: The cost of allowances adds operational expenses, motivating investment in energy-efficient technologies and alternative fuels.

How to Capitalize:

Emission Monitoring: Implement robust systems to accurately monitor and report emissions.
Invest in Green Technologies: Upgrade vessels with energy-efficient systems to reduce emissions.
Alternative Fuels: Transition to low-carbon fuels to minimize required allowances.


2️⃣ European Investment Bank (EIB) Green Shipping Guarantee Programme

The EIB's Green Shipping Guarantee Programme accelerates investments in sustainable maritime technologies by providing loan guarantees to European shipping companies, reducing financial risks associated with green investments.

Key Points:

  • Scope: Finances projects such as new vessel constructions, retrofits, and eco-friendly tech adoption.
  • Partnerships: Works with banks specializing in ship financing to provide favorable loan terms.
  • Objective: Supports sustainability and emission reduction in maritime transport.

How to Capitalize:

Project Eligibility: Develop projects focused on energy efficiency, emission reduction, or alternative fuels.
Secure Financing: Engage with EIB-partnered banks to explore financing options.
Leverage Guarantees: Use the EIB guarantees to access better loan terms for green investments.


3️⃣ Norwegian NOx Fund 🇳🇴

Norway’s NOx Fund is a national initiative where shipowners pay fees based on their NOx emissions into a fund that provides grants for emission-reduction projects.

Key Points:

  • Fee Structure: Contributions are proportional to NOx emissions.
  • Funding Support: Grants for technologies that reduce NOx, such as SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) systems.
  • Impact: Supports Norway’s goal of reducing maritime emissions while easing compliance costs.

How to Capitalize:

Enroll in the Fund: Register with the NOx Fund to become eligible for incentives.
Apply for Grants: Submit projects that integrate NOx reduction technologies.
Upgrade Technology: Implement SCR systems, engine modifications, or alternative fuels to qualify.


4️⃣ Singapore Green Ship Programme 🇸🇬

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) rewards shipowners who register energy-efficient vessels under the Singapore flag. Benefits include tax rebates and reduced port dues.

Key Points:

  • Eligibility: Ships must exceed the IMO's Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) standards.
  • Incentives:
    • Up to 50% reduction on initial registration fees.
    • 20% rebate on annual tonnage tax.
  • Certification Requirement: Vessels must be Singapore-registered to qualify.

How to Capitalize:

Design Efficiency: Invest in ship designs that surpass EEDI standards.
Register Vessels: Enroll qualifying ships under the Singapore flag to access rebates.
Maintain Performance: Continuously improve efficiency to sustain long-term benefits.


5️⃣ Poseidon Principles – Sustainable Ship Financing

The Poseidon Principles are a global framework for responsible ship finance, aligning lending decisions with climate goals to promote decarbonization in the maritime industry.

Key Points:

  • Alignment with Climate Goals: Banks assess and disclose their shipping portfolios' climate impact, ensuring they align with IMO emission reduction targets.
  • Signatory Commitment: Over 30 major shipping banks participate, influencing loan terms based on a vessel’s environmental performance.
  • Loan Incentives: Shipowners with low-emission vessels can access preferential financing rates and better loan conditions.

How to Capitalize:

Upgrade Fleet: Retrofitting vessels with energy-efficient tech makes financing more accessible.
Leverage Green Loans: Secure lower interest rates by meeting carbon reduction benchmarks.
Track Performance: Implement emission monitoring to maintain compliance and financial benefits.


6️⃣ IMO GreenVoyage2050 Funding Support

The IMO’s GreenVoyage2050 initiative provides technical assistance and funding to support developing countries and shipowners in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Key Points:

  • Focus on Developing Countries: Supports Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in maritime decarbonization.
  • Public-Private Collaboration: Partnering with governments and private stakeholders to fund green shipping projects.
  • Capacity Building: Offers training programs, workshops, and advisory support for shipowners and ports.

How to Capitalize:

Apply for Project Funding: Shipowners in developing regions can access grants for cleaner technologies.
Join Training Programs: Free technical workshops help fleets transition to greener operations.
Collaborate with IMO Partners: Work with governments and organizations to receive financial and technical backing.


7️⃣ UK Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) 🇬🇧

The CMDC is a government-funded program that supports the development and demonstration of clean maritime technologies.

Key Points:

  • Annual Funding Rounds: The UK government has allocated millions in grants for maritime decarbonization projects.
  • Technology Focus: Supports zero-emission vessels, alternative fuels, and digital solutions for green shipping.
  • Industry Collaboration: Encourages partnerships between shipowners, research institutions, and tech developers.

How to Capitalize:

Apply for Funding: Secure grants for R&D, retrofitting, or new clean-tech vessel projects.
Pilot New Technologies: Test innovative zero-emission solutions with government support.
Form Industry Partnerships: Collaborate with universities and tech firms to boost funding chances.


8️⃣ Green Award Program

The Green Award Program certifies environmentally responsible ships, offering financial incentives such as discounted port fees and operational benefits.

Key Points:

  • Voluntary Certification: Shipowners must meet strict environmental and safety criteria to qualify.
  • Port Fee Reductions: Over 100 ports worldwide offer discounted dues to certified vessels.
  • Extended Benefits: Additional incentives include insurance premium discounts and priority berthing.

How to Capitalize:

Apply for Certification: Demonstrate high environmental and operational standards to qualify.
Reduce Operational Costs: Use port fee discounts to cut expenses across global routes.
Improve Reputation: Certification boosts credibility for securing cargo contracts and financing.


9️⃣ Environmental Ship Index (ESI)

The Environmental Ship Index (ESI) is a voluntary rating system that evaluates a ship’s environmental performance, rewarding vessels that exceed emission reduction standards with financial incentives.

Key Points:

  • Emission-Based Scoring: Evaluates NOₓ, SOₓ, and CO₂ emissions, with extra points for vessels using onshore power supply (OPS).
  • Port Fee Discounts: Many major ports worldwide offer fee reductions for high-scoring ships.
  • Industry Recognition: Used by port authorities, cargo owners, and financiers to identify environmentally responsible vessels.

How to Capitalize:

Register Vessels: Enroll your fleet in the ESI program to receive an official rating.
Optimize Emissions: Reduce NOₓ, SOₓ, and CO₂ emissions through cleaner fuel and efficiency upgrades.
Leverage Discounts: Take advantage of lower port fees and priority berthing at participating ports.


🔟 Clean Shipping Index (CSI)

The Clean Shipping Index (CSI) is an independent certification system that ranks vessels based on their environmental footprint, influencing cargo contracts and port incentives.

Key Points:

  • Comprehensive Evaluation: Assesses air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, chemicals, and waste management.
  • Tiered Certification: Ships receive a 1-to-5-star rating, with higher ratings unlocking greater benefits.
  • Preferred Cargo Contracts: Many cargo owners favor high-rated ships, leading to better business opportunities.

How to Capitalize:

Conduct Environmental Audits: Analyze your vessel’s emissions and identify improvement areas.
Upgrade Equipment: Implement low-sulfur fuels, waste treatment systems, and energy-saving technologies.
Market Your Rating: Use a high CSI score to attract eco-conscious clients and gain competitive advantages.


1️⃣1️⃣ Sweden's Differentiated Fairway Dues 🇸🇪

Sweden offers lower fairway dues for vessels that demonstrate superior environmental performance, encouraging NOₓ and CO₂ emission reductions.

Key Points:

  • Variable Fee Structure: Ships are classified into categories based on their NOₓ and CO₂ emissions.
  • Direct Cost Savings: The cleaner the ship, the lower the fees, reducing operational expenses.
  • Government-Backed Initiative: Managed by the Swedish Maritime Administration to promote green shipping.

How to Capitalize:

Assess Your Fleet’s Classification: Determine where your vessels rank under Sweden’s emission-based categories.
Implement Emission-Reduction Measures: Upgrade engine technology and adopt low-carbon fuels to qualify for lower fees.
Monitor and Adjust: Continuously improve efficiency and emission reductions to maximize fairway dues savings.


1️⃣2️⃣ Maritime Singapore Green Initiative 🇸🇬

Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) provides financial incentives for shipowners that adopt green technologies and sustainable operations.

Key Points:

  • Green Ship Programme: Tax rebates and lower registration fees for energy-efficient vessels.
  • Green Port Programme: Discounted port dues for ships that adopt approved emission-reduction technologies.
  • Green Technology Programme: Co-funding for maritime companies investing in green technologies.

How to Capitalize:

Enroll in the Right Program: Determine whether your fleet qualifies for ship, port, or technology incentives.
Invest in Green Technology: Utilize MPA co-funding to reduce the costs of adopting eco-friendly tech.
Ensure Compliance: Maintain efficiency and emissions targets to continue receiving long-term benefits.


1️⃣3️⃣ Port of Los Angeles Green Ship Incentive Program

The Port of Los Angeles offers financial incentives to encourage vessel operators to deploy cleaner ships that surpass current emission standards.

Key Points:

  • Environmental Ship Index (ESI): Rewards vessels with high ESI scores, indicating lower emissions of NOₓ, SOₓ, and CO₂.
  • Incentive Tiers: Financial rewards are based on the vessel's ESI score, with higher scores receiving greater incentives.
  • Emission Reduction: Aims to cut down on air pollutants by promoting the use of environmentally friendly ships.

How to Capitalize:

  • Enhance Vessel Efficiency: Upgrade ships with advanced emission-reducing technologies to achieve higher ESI scores.
  • Participate in the Program: Register eligible vessels with the Port of Los Angeles to start receiving incentives.
  • Monitor Performance: Continuously assess and improve your fleet's environmental performance to maximize benefits.

1️⃣4️⃣ Port of Long Beach Green Ship Incentive Program

The Port of Long Beach provides financial incentives to vessel operators who bring cleaner, more efficient ships to their port, aiming to reduce emissions and promote sustainability.

Key Points:

  • Incentive Levels: Offers three tiers of incentives ranging from $600 to $6,000 per call, depending on the vessel's ESI score.
  • Eligibility: Vessels equipped with main engines meeting Tier II or Tier III standards are eligible for higher incentives.
  • Program Extension: The program has been extended through June 30, 2026, reflecting the port's ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship.

How to Capitalize:

  • Upgrade Engines: Invest in modern, low-emission engines that meet or exceed Tier II standards.
  • Register for the Program: Enroll your vessels in the Green Ship Incentive Program to access financial rewards.
  • Plan Port Calls: Strategically schedule calls to the Port of Long Beach with eligible vessels to maximize incentive earnings.

1️⃣5️⃣ Japan’s Green Innovation Fund for Shipping 🇯🇵

Japan's Green Innovation Fund, managed by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), allocates substantial resources to develop and implement low-emission maritime technologies.

Key Points:

  • Funding Allocation: Up to ¥35 billion (approximately $320 million) is designated for the development of next-generation ships and low-carbon shipping technologies.
  • Focus Areas: Projects include the development of ammonia and hydrogen-fueled vessels, as well as technologies to reduce methane slip from LNG-powered ships.
  • Timeline: Aims to commercialize zero-emission vessels by 2028, with ongoing support for research and development.

How to Capitalize:

  • Submit Proposals: Develop innovative projects focused on low-emission technologies and apply for funding through NEDO.
  • Collaborate with Stakeholders: Partner with Japanese shipbuilders, research institutions, and technology providers to enhance project viability.
  • Stay Informed: Keep abreast of application deadlines and funding requirements to take full advantage of available resources.

1️⃣6️⃣ Germany’s Subsidy Program for Low-Emission Ship Engines 🇩🇪

The German government offers subsidies to support the modernization of vessels, focusing on the adoption of low-emission technologies to reduce the maritime industry's environmental footprint.

Key Points:

  • Funding Opportunities: Financial assistance is available for projects that retrofit existing ships with cleaner engines or incorporate innovative emission-reduction technologies.
  • Program Objectives: Aims to decrease greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants from maritime operations, contributing to national and international climate goals.
  • Recent Initiatives: Projects have received funding for integrating battery-driven propulsion systems, wind-assisted propulsion, and the capability to utilize alternative fuels like biodiesel.

How to Capitalize:

  • Identify Eligible Projects: Assess your fleet to determine which vessels can be upgraded with low-emission technologies.
  • Apply for Subsidies: Prepare and submit applications detailing proposed upgrades to the relevant German authorities.
  • Implement Green Technologies: Utilize granted funds to retrofit vessels, ensuring compliance with environmental standards and improving operational efficiency.

1️⃣7️⃣ California Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS)

The California Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) is a market-based regulation designed to reduce the carbon intensity of transportation fuels within the state. It incentivizes the adoption of low-carbon and renewable fuels, offering credits to fuel producers and users who lower their greenhouse gas emissions.

Key Points:

  • Carbon Intensity Reduction: The LCFS mandates a gradual decrease in the carbon intensity of transportation fuels, aiming for a significant reduction by 2030.
  • Credit System: Producers and consumers of low-carbon fuels, including maritime operators using cleaner fuels, can generate credits. These credits can be sold to parties that need them to comply with the standard, creating a financial incentive for emission reductions.
  • Maritime Inclusion: While traditionally focused on road transportation, the LCFS has provisions that allow maritime fuel users to opt-in and benefit from the program.

How to Capitalize:

  • Adopt Low-Carbon Fuels: Transition your fleet to low-carbon alternatives such as biofuels or renewable diesel to generate LCFS credits.
  • Participate in the Credit Market: Register with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to earn and trade credits, creating an additional revenue stream.
  • Utilize Shore Power: Equip vessels to use shore power while docked, reducing emissions and earning additional credits under the LCFS.

1️⃣8️⃣ Canada’s Green Shipping Corridor Program 🇨🇦

Canada's Green Shipping Corridor Program is a federal initiative aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime sector by supporting the development of green shipping corridors—specific routes that prioritize low or zero-emission maritime transport.

Key Points:

  • Funding Streams: The program offers two main funding streams:
    • Clean Ports Stream: Allocates up to CAD 127.2 million over four years for infrastructure projects at ports and terminals, including shore power installations and clean fuel infrastructure.
    • Clean Vessel Demonstration Stream: Provides up to CAD 22.5 million over five years to support the demonstration of low and zero-emission vessel technologies.
  • Collaborative Efforts: Encourages partnerships between ports, vessel operators, and other stakeholders to establish and enhance green shipping corridors.
  • Emission Reduction Goals: Aims to facilitate measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions along key maritime routes.

How to Capitalize:

  • Apply for Funding: Submit proposals for projects that align with the program's objectives, such as retrofitting vessels with clean technologies or developing port infrastructure to support low-emission shipping.
  • Form Partnerships: Collaborate with other industry stakeholders to create comprehensive proposals that address multiple aspects of green shipping corridors.
  • Stay Informed: Monitor Transport Canada's announcements for application deadlines and program updates to take timely action.

1️⃣9️⃣ France’s Green Shipping Finance Program 🇫🇷

France's Green Shipping Finance Program is a public-private initiative designed to accelerate the decarbonization of the maritime sector by providing financial support to shipowners investing in environmentally friendly technologies.

Key Points:

  • Maritime Decarbonization Fund: France has established a €1.5 billion fund to support investments in green maritime projects, including the construction of low-emission vessels and the retrofitting of existing ships with cleaner technologies.
  • Subsidized Loans: The program offers loans with favorable terms to shipowners and operators who commit to reducing their environmental footprint.
  • Scope of Projects: Eligible projects include those focused on energy efficiency improvements, adoption of alternative fuels, and integration of advanced emission-reduction technologies.

How to Capitalize:

  • Develop Green Projects: Identify and plan projects that aim to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency within your fleet.
  • Engage with Financial Institutions: Collaborate with banks and financial entities participating in the program to secure subsidized loans.
  • Leverage Public Support: Utilize the financial assistance to offset the costs of implementing green technologies, enhancing both environmental performance and competitiveness.

2️⃣0️⃣ Danish Green Maritime Fund 🇩🇰

The Danish Green Maritime Fund is a financial initiative established to promote innovation and sustainability within Denmark's maritime industry by supporting projects that contribute to environmental improvements and technological advancements.

Key Points:

  • Scope of Support: The fund provides financial assistance for a wide range of projects, including the development of green technologies, energy efficiency enhancements, and initiatives aimed at reducing the environmental impact of maritime operations.
  • Eligibility: Open to Danish maritime companies, including shipowners, equipment manufacturers, and service providers engaged in projects that align with the fund's objectives.
  • Funding Mechanism: Offers grants and loans covering up to 50% of the project costs, with a focus on high-risk, forward-looking initiatives that have the potential to significantly benefit the Danish maritime sector.

How to Capitalize:

  • Propose Innovative Projects: Develop proposals for projects that introduce new technologies or processes aimed at reducing emissions and promoting sustainability.
  • Apply for Funding: Submit detailed applications outlining the project's objectives, expected outcomes, and alignment with the fund's goals.
  • Collaborate for Success: Partner with research institutions, other companies, or industry associations to strengthen the project's impact and feasibility.

Reference Links

ShipUniverse: Green Financial Incentives for Shipowners and Fleet Operators
Program Description
EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) for Shipping The EU ETS is a cap-and-trade system that includes CO₂ emissions from large ships entering EU ports. Shipowners must monitor, report, and surrender allowances for their emissions. https://ec.europa.eu/
European Investment Bank (EIB) Green Shipping Guarantee Programme This program provides loan guarantees to European shipping companies investing in sustainable maritime technologies, reducing financial risks associated with green investments. https://www.eib.org/
Norwegian NOx Fund A national initiative where companies pay fees based on their NOx emissions into a fund that finances projects aimed at emission reductions, including grants for adopting cleaner technologies in maritime operations. https://www.nho.no
Singapore Green Ship Programme Offers tax rebates and reduced port dues for ships that exceed environmental standards, promoting sustainable shipping practices. https://www.mpa.gov.sg/
Poseidon Principles – Sustainable Ship Financing A global framework aligning ship finance portfolios with climate goals, encouraging decarbonization in the maritime industry. https://www.poseidonprinciples.org/
IMO GreenVoyage2050 Funding Support Provides technical assistance and funding to support developing countries and shipowners in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. https://www.imo.org/
UK Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) A government-funded program supporting the development and demonstration of clean maritime technologies. https://www.gov.uk/
Green Award Program Certifies environmentally responsible ships, offering financial incentives such as discounted port fees and operational benefits. https://www.greenaward.org/
Environmental Ship Index (ESI) A voluntary program evaluating vessels based on their air pollutant emissions, rewarding those that exceed environmental performance standards. https://www.environmentalshipindex.org/
Clean Shipping Index (CSI) An independent labelling system ranking vessels based on their environmental performance, influencing cargo contracts and port incentives. https://www.cleanshippingindex.com/
Sweden's Differentiated Fairway Dues Offers reduced fairway dues for vessels employing NOₓ reduction measures, incentivizing the adoption of cleaner technologies. https://www.sjofartsverket.se/en/
Maritime Singapore Green Initiative Encourages green shipping practices by offering incentives such as reduced port dues for environmentally friendly vessels. https://www.mpa.gov.sg/
Port of Los Angeles Green Ship Incentive Program Provides financial incentives to operators of clean ships that voluntarily reduce emissions beyond regulatory requirements. https://www.portoflosangeles.org/
Port of Long Beach Green Ship Incentive Program Offers incentives to vessel operators who bring the cleanest, most efficient ships to the port. https://polb.com/
Japan’s Green Innovation Fund for Shipping Provides grants for research and development of low-emission maritime technologies, including hydrogen and ammonia-fueled vessels. https://www.nedo.go.jp/
Germany’s Subsidy Program for Low-Emission Ship Engines Supports shipowners upgrading vessels with cleaner engines, promoting alternative fuels and hybrid-electric systems. https://www.bmvi.de/
California Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) Rewards shipowners using low-carbon fuels by allowing them to earn and trade carbon credits under California’s emissions reduction program. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/
Canada’s Green Shipping Corridor Program Funds projects that establish low-emission shipping corridors, supporting alternative fuels and sustainable port infrastructure. https://tc.canada.ca/
France’s Green Shipping Finance Program Offers subsidized loans to shipowners investing in decarbonization, particularly for energy-efficient vessel upgrades. https://www.ecologie.gouv.fr/
Danish Green Maritime Fund Provides financial support for green retrofits and maritime innovation, funding projects that reduce emissions and increase energy efficiency. https://dendanskemaritimefond.dk/

Table Summary

ShipUniverse: Top 10 Green Financial Incentives for Shipowners
Program Description How to Capitalize
EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) for Shipping A cap-and-trade system requiring shipowners to buy and surrender carbon allowances for emissions, encouraging greener operations.
  • Optimize fuel efficiency to reduce emissions and minimize allowance costs.
  • Invest in alternative fuels like LNG, biofuels, or hydrogen to lower CO₂ output.
  • Monitor emissions with onboard tracking systems to ensure compliance.
European Investment Bank (EIB) Green Shipping Guarantee Programme Loan guarantees to help shipowners secure financing for sustainable vessel retrofits and green technology adoption.
  • Apply for EIB-backed loans to fund energy-efficient upgrades.
  • Work with partner banks to get preferential loan terms for sustainable investments.
  • Focus on projects that align with EIB sustainability goals.
Norwegian NOx Fund A government-managed fund where shipowners pay fees based on NOx emissions, which are then reinvested into emission-reduction projects.
  • Register with the NOx Fund to qualify for financial grants.
  • Invest in NOx reduction technologies like Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems.
  • Apply for project funding to retrofit ships with cleaner engines.
Singapore Green Ship Programme Provides tax rebates and port fee discounts for energy-efficient vessels that exceed environmental standards.
  • Ensure your vessel meets the required Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) standards.
  • Register your ship under the Singapore flag to qualify for incentives.
  • Continuously improve environmental performance to retain benefits.
Poseidon Principles – Sustainable Ship Financing A framework for banks and financial institutions to offer better loan terms for shipowners investing in low-emission vessels.
  • Upgrade vessels with fuel-efficient technologies to access better financing.
  • Apply for loans from participating banks that adhere to the Poseidon Principles.
  • Maintain a strong environmental performance record to secure future funding.
IMO GreenVoyage2050 Funding Support A global initiative providing technical assistance and funding to help developing countries transition to green shipping.
  • Partner with IMO-backed programs to receive funding support.
  • Participate in training and capacity-building initiatives.
  • Collaborate with international maritime organizations to access grants.
UK Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) A UK government-funded initiative that awards grants for clean maritime technology research and development projects.
  • Apply for funding rounds focusing on alternative fuels and emissions reduction.
  • Collaborate with technology firms and research institutions to strengthen proposals.
  • Use grant money to pilot and test low-carbon shipping innovations.
Green Award Program A certification scheme that rewards environmentally friendly ships with reduced port fees and operational benefits.
  • Achieve Green Award certification by meeting strict environmental standards.
  • Take advantage of discounted port dues at participating ports.
  • Use certification to attract more eco-conscious cargo clients.
Environmental Ship Index (ESI) A rating system evaluating ship emissions, rewarding vessels with low NOx, SOx, and CO₂ emissions through reduced port fees.
  • Enroll vessels in the ESI program to receive an environmental performance score.
  • Invest in energy-efficient ship designs to increase ESI ratings.
  • Benefit from port fee reductions at participating ports.
Clean Shipping Index (CSI) An independent ranking system that rates ships based on their environmental footprint, influencing cargo contracts and port incentives.
  • Obtain a high CSI rating by improving emissions, waste management, and chemical handling.
  • Use certification to attract cargo owners looking for eco-friendly transport.
  • Leverage your ranking to access incentives from ports and financial institutions.
Sweden's Differentiated Fairway Dues Sweden offers reduced fairway dues for vessels that operate with lower NOx and CO₂ emissions, encouraging shipowners to adopt cleaner technologies.
  • Assess your vessel’s emissions to determine eligibility for lower dues.
  • Invest in emission-reducing technology like LNG propulsion or hybrid power systems.
  • Monitor fairway fee policies regularly to ensure maximum savings.
Maritime Singapore Green Initiative A suite of incentives from the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, offering financial benefits for shipowners who adopt sustainable shipping practices.
  • Enroll in the Green Ship Programme to receive tax rebates and port fee reductions.
  • Adopt cleaner fuel technologies to qualify for additional financial incentives.
  • Ensure compliance with Singapore’s sustainability benchmarks to retain benefits.
Port of Los Angeles Green Ship Incentive Program Provides financial incentives for shipowners who voluntarily operate cleaner vessels that meet high environmental standards.
  • Upgrade vessels to meet Tier II or Tier III engine standards to qualify for rebates.
  • Enroll ships with high Environmental Ship Index (ESI) scores to maximize incentives.
  • Plan port calls strategically with eligible ships to increase rebate earnings.
Port of Long Beach Green Ship Incentive Program Similar to Los Angeles, this program offers tiered financial incentives for low-emission ships calling at the Port of Long Beach.
  • Ensure vessels meet Tier II or Tier III emission standards to receive higher incentives.
  • Maximize savings by integrating port calls with Los Angeles and Long Beach incentive programs.
  • Use cleaner fuels to further enhance eligibility for financial rewards.
Japan’s Green Innovation Fund for Shipping Japan’s Green Innovation Fund supports the development and implementation of low-emission maritime technologies through large-scale financial grants.
  • Apply for funding to develop hydrogen or ammonia-fueled ships.
  • Partner with Japanese research institutions to strengthen project eligibility.
  • Leverage subsidies for retrofitting existing vessels with clean technologies.
Germany’s Subsidy Program for Low-Emission Ship Engines Germany provides financial support for shipowners to replace high-emission engines with cleaner alternatives, reducing the maritime sector’s carbon footprint.
  • Identify vessels that qualify for subsidized engine replacement programs.
  • Apply for funding to install alternative propulsion systems such as hybrid-electric or LNG engines.
  • Ensure compliance with German emission reduction goals to maintain funding eligibility.
California Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) A credit system rewarding shipowners who use low-carbon fuels, allowing them to trade credits to offset costs.
  • Transition your fleet to renewable diesel, biofuels, or hydrogen to earn LCFS credits.
  • Register vessels with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to access the credit marketplace.
  • Trade earned credits with companies that need them to comply with emission limits.
Canada’s Green Shipping Corridor Program Provides grants for projects that establish low-emission shipping corridors, supporting alternative fuel adoption and clean infrastructure.
  • Apply for funding to implement low-emission shipping technologies along designated routes.
  • Collaborate with Canadian ports and logistics partners to maximize grant eligibility.
  • Utilize funding to develop shore power infrastructure or alternative fueling systems.
France’s Green Shipping Finance Program A government-backed financing program that offers subsidized loans to shipowners investing in low-emission ships and sustainable maritime infrastructure.
  • Apply for low-interest loans to retrofit ships or invest in zero-emission vessels.
  • Demonstrate alignment with France’s maritime decarbonization targets to qualify.
  • Leverage state-backed financial support to reduce capital investment risks.
Danish Green Maritime Fund Denmark's initiative offering financial support for maritime innovation and ship retrofits that improve environmental performance.
  • Submit proposals for projects focused on emission reduction and fuel efficiency improvements.
  • Work with Danish research institutions to develop and implement green shipping solutions.
  • Use grant funding to offset costs associated with installing alternative propulsion technologies.