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Brazilian Maritime Transport Seeks Balance Between Logistics and Sustainability
The Brazilian maritime transport, therefore, faces a decisive moment to align its operations with global decarbonization goals. Additionally, new guidelines were established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 2023.
Although the sector accounts for only 2.89% of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to the IMO, climate change still demands urgent measures to reduce the carbon footprint. For this reason, the country needs to act quickly.
Environmental Penalties Begin in 2027
The new strategy from the IMO, approved in 2023, therefore provides for the application of progressive penalties for carbon emissions starting in 2027. Thus, there will be a direct impact on the cost of maritime transport worldwide.
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Amid the tension in global maritime routes, one of Brazil’s most important ports is gaining strength by receiving world-class ships of up to 170,000 tons and opening a new path for exports and imports.
In the meantime, Brazil needs to deal with a complex logistical reality. This happens because road transport, according to the National Transport Confederation (CNT), still accounts for about two-thirds of internal cargo transport. Additionally, it does not yet incorporate additional environmental costs.
Asymmetry Between Modalities Poses Risk of Regression
Experts state that there is a dangerous asymmetry between the modalities. According to the Logistics and Supply Chain Institute (ILOS), maritime transport emits, on average, five times less CO₂ per ton-kilometer than road transport.
However, without incentives and regulatory support, cabotage may lose competitiveness. Therefore, cargo may shift back to the road mode, which is more polluting. Thus, the shift would be environmentally negative and economically inefficient.
Energy Transition Imposes High Costs
Moreover, the cost of adapting cabotage includes the use of lower-emission but higher-priced fuels. Therefore, this impacts freight rates and, consequently, the consumer’s wallet.
In the meantime, sectors intensive in long routes, dedicated vessels, and lower value-added cargoes will feel the impact sooner. Thus, they end up absorbing costs throughout the logistics chain.
Shipbuilding Industry Has a Strategic Role in the Transformation
Despite the challenges, Brazil has technical and natural advantages to lead part of the transition. Furthermore, a study released by Embrapa in partnership with CIBiogás in 2023 projects that by 2040 renewable fuels could replace up to 30% of marine diesel.
For this reason, the shipbuilding industry gains new momentum to invest in retrofitting, modernization, and the construction of more efficient vessels. Thus, the upgrading of ports, green corridors, and supply terminals also becomes a priority.
Structured National Plan is Urgent
In addition to all this, authorities advocate the creation of a structured national plan, with inter-ministerial coordination, participation from the private sector, and support from research institutions.
Thus, this planning should include a gradual replacement of fossil fuels, certification, infrastructure, and fleet adaptation to ensure competitiveness. Therefore, it is essential to maintain logistical sustainability.
Without this strategy, on the other hand, Brazil, with its 7,500 kilometers of coastline, may lose prominence in maritime transport. This is concerning because the sector is essential for regional integration and economic development.
Cabotage Can Be an Ally of Decarbonization
When well-structured, cabotage can reduce emissions, as well as integrate regions and improve national logistical efficiency. However, without adequate regulatory conditions and incentives, the logistical and environmental potential may be wasted.
Thus, it is crucial to invest in accurate data, as well as transparency and financing proportional to the technological challenges imposed by the energy transition.
Challenges and Opportunities Under Debate
- Reduce emissions without compromising competitiveness.
- Avoid regression to the road mode.
- Strengthen shipyards and the shipbuilding industry.
- Balance logistical costs so as not to penalize the consumer.
- Leverage natural advantages in renewable fuels.
What’s at Stake for the Future?
Decarbonization of maritime transport is a path of no return. However, how Brazil will face this challenge will define the role of cabotage in the coming years.
Without coordination, the country may lose structural advantages, in addition to compromising its logistical competitiveness. On the other hand, with integrated planning, cabotage can establish itself as a strategic asset capable of driving environmental and economic progress.
And you? Do you think Brazil should accelerate the adoption of renewable fuels in cabotage or balance the advancement with regulatory incentives to prevent logistical imbalances? Share your opinion!
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