A study commissioned by the International Maritime Organization says implementing mandatory energy efficiency measures for international shipping will lead to significant reductions of greenhouse gas emissions from ships, specifically of carbon dioxide (CO2).

The study estimates that by 2020 the measures will result in an average of 151.5 million tons of annual CO2 reductions. By 2030, that figure is expected to increase to a yearly average reduction of 330 million tons. Moreover, there should be a significant saving in fuel costs to the shipping industry.

The study, Assessment of IMO Mandated Energy Efficiency Measures for International Shipping, was launched Nov. 14 ahead of the forthcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference, to be held in Durban, South Africa, Nov. 28 to Dec. 9, 2011.

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