(www.MaritimeCyprus.com) In a pioneering move, the Gabonese Republic has introduced a carbon levy on international maritime and aviation operations, effective from April 1, 2025. This initiative, established under Presidential Decree No. 0054/PR/MECCHF dated January 16, 2025, aims to align Gabon's environmental policies with global climate objectives while generating funds for local sustainable projects.
Key Features of the Carbon Levy
Rate and Scope: A fee of USD 17 per metric tonne of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e) is imposed on 50% of emissions from vessels and aircraft entering or leaving Gabon. This measure targets approximately 3–5 million tCO₂e annually.
Emission Calculation: The levy is based on the distance between the last port of loading and the next port of discharge. For voyages with unknown destinations, a charge of $0.25 per gross tonnage (GT) is applied.
Revenue Allocation: Funds collected are managed by government-appointed entities and are earmarked for sustainable development initiatives within Gabon, enhancing the nation's environmental and economic resilience.
Offset Provisions: Starting in 2026, operators can offset up to 30% of their emissions through carbon projects developed within Gabon, prioritizing local initiatives.
Implementation and Compliance
The program is administered through the Africa Sovereign Carbon Registry, modeled after a similar system in Djibouti, which has successfully funded multiple sustainability projects . Shipping companies, including A.P. Moller – Maersk, have incorporated the levy into their booking charges under specific codes (CEE for exports and CEI for imports), with fees of XAF 5,000 for 20-foot containers and XAF 6,000 for 40/45-foot containers.
Global Context and Implications
Gabon’s initiative reflects a broader trend in the maritime industry towards carbon pricing mechanisms. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is currently deliberating a global carbon tax on shipping emissions, with proposals suggesting a minimum fee of $100 per tonne of CO₂. Such measures aim to decarbonize the sector and provide climate finance for vulnerable nations.
By implementing this levy, Gabon not only contributes to global emission reduction efforts but also sets a precedent for other nations seeking to balance environmental responsibility with economic development.
A Trend in the Making?
Who knows - perhaps Gabon is simply blazing the trail for a bold new climate finance model: the Sovereign Carbon Cash Cow. Just imagine the possibilities if every coastal nation followed suit. Instead of battling over emissions reduction targets or investing in cleaner fuels, countries could simply slap a price tag on carbon and collect dues from passing ships like highway toll booths. No need for complex carbon markets, expensive infrastructure upgrades, or those pesky enforcement mechanisms. After all, what’s more sustainable than sustainable revenue?
Shipping lines would adapt, of course - adding "green fees" to freight bills, passing costs to consumers, and everyone could pat themselves on the back for funding environmental progress. The beauty of the system? Emissions don't actually need to drop. Operators just pay to pollute, governments earn windfalls, and spreadsheets everywhere show “climate action” in bold green font. Carbon neutrality might just become a line item in national budgets—who needs net-zero when you can net-profit?
