Maritime Freight Carbon Emission in the U.S. using AIS data from 2018 to 2022

Abstract

Global maritime emissions, a 3% contributor to greenhouse gases, anticipate a surge of 90–130% by 2050. Regulatory challenges persist due to international governance gaps. Legislative strides, including the EU Emission Trading System, highlight global efforts. In the U.S., despite legislative commitment, consensus hurdles impede cross-regional carbon management. Prevailing top-down emissions estimation methods warrant scrutiny. This paper unveils U.S. maritime emissions intricacies, focusing on carbon accounting, transfer, and compensation for cargo and tanker vessels. Leveraging AIS data (2018–2022), an activity-based/bottom-up approach navigates emissions calculations, aiming to reshape understanding and foster strategic reductions. The study bridges gaps in U.S. maritime emission research, promising insights into transfer and compensation dynamics. By concentrating on high-impact vessel types, it contributes to emissions mitigation strategies, steering towards a sustainable U.S. maritime future.