MPA to promote environmentally-friendly shipping

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore has launched a Maritime Singapore Green Initiative to promote environmentally-friendly shipping.

The initiative, which will cost MPA S$100 million, will be rolled out across three areas, namely, Green Ship Programme, Green Port Programme and Green Technology Programme

Under the Green Ship Programme, MPA will provide incentives for Singapore-flagged ships that are designed to be energy efficient. Those that exceed the requirements of the International Maritime Organisation's Energy Efficiency Design Index will only pay 50% of the Initial Registration Fees and get a 20% rebate on Annual Tonnage Tax (ATT). Exemplary ship owners will also receive certificates and win a "Green Ship" award.

In the Green Port Programme, ships that use approved technologies or burn clean fuel can qualify for lower port dues when calling at the Port of Singapore.

In addition, MPA has set aside a S$50 million fund to encourage local maritime companies to go green. Companies can apply for a fund of up to S$2 million per project under this Green Technology Programme.