German shipowners regard Europe’s stance on shipping emissions as “inconsistent” and are pressing members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to allow the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to regulate the industry.

The German Shipowners’ Association (VDR) has been critical of European policies this year, with its latest disagreement focusing on shipping emissions.

It turned out to be the most heated debate during the European Shipping Week (ESW) hosted in Brussels last week, shortly after the European Parliament included shipping in the European Emissions Trading System (ETS).