The World Bank has called for faster investment in efficient ports, modern fleets and low-carbon marine fuels to help East Asia and the Pacific shipping sector cut emissions and strengthen energy security.
Its latest report, Ports, Ships and Fuels: Maritime Efficiency, Safety and Sustainability in East Asia and Pacific, says operational improvements, digital port systems and Just-In-Time vessel arrivals could significantly reduce fuel use, congestion and emissions.
The report highlights green methanol and green ammonia as important alternatives to conventional marine fuels, but warns that limited production, high costs and inadequate bunkering infrastructure remain major barriers.
More than 99% of global marine fuel consumption still comes from fossil fuels.
The World Bank estimates that upgrading ports between 2025 and 2040 will require about $180 billion, while fleet replacement could require more than $280 billion.
Additional investment of around $310 billion for green ammonia, $81 billion for green methanol and $42 billion for renewable LNG will also be needed.
