The UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS) covered maritime activity for the first time from 1 July 2026. It applies to cargo and passenger ships of 5,000 gross tonnes and above.
The scheme covers voyages between UK ports. International voyages are outside its scope, but emissions produced while a ship is moored or anchored in a UK port are included. According to DNV, the first scheme year runs from 1 July to 31 December 2026, with allowances due for surrender by 30 April 2028.
In its Q3 2026 emissions surcharge notice, Maersk said it had assessed UK ETS compliance costs, judged the impact minimal and decided not to pass them on to customers.
Sources
- DNV: The UK ETS expands to maritime from 1 July 2026 (opens in a new tab)
- Maersk: Emissions Surcharge (EMS/ESS), Q3 2026 (opens in a new tab)
A summary of the public sources above, checked when it was published. General information, not legal, tax or financial advice.