How real-time emissions tracking can help decarbonize the maritime industry

Shipping is responsible for nearly 3% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, a figure that continues to attract global scrutiny as climate targets intensify. In response, the sector is chartering a course to decarbonize, not just through long-term commitments, but through verifiable, measurable action.

In support of the decarbonization efforts, there is a growing need for real-time emissions tracking. More than just a reporting mechanism, it's becoming a strategic tool for emissions reduction, regulatory compliance and supply chain transparency.

As regulations such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the IMO Data Collection System (DCS) and the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) evolve, shipping companies, freight forwarders and port authorities must adopt new practices to meet heightened accountability standards.

Managing emissions is two-fold. Firstly, it is about the efforts to replace fossil fuels with less emitting fuels on a pathway to zero-emissions fuels. Secondly, the industry is working hard to develop a real-time understanding of how to take actions that create efficiency gains to reduce emissions.

Traditional estimation models, often based on averages and lagging indicators, lack the granularity to drive operational change. In contrast, advanced real-time data enable voyage-specific insights, capturing emissions data on a per-leg, per-vessel basis.

This not only enhances reporting accuracy but also exposes inefficiencies in fuel use, vessel routing, and idle time.

Modern emissions CO₂e (CO₂ equivalent) reporting begins with smart, connected infrastructure. Automatic Identification System (AIS), IoT-based sensors, satellite tracking and fuel flow meters are now foundational technologies for data capture in maritime logistics.

Modern platforms now take this raw, disparate data and transform it into structured, actionable emissions intelligence. By fusing voyage data with fuel consumption records and port activity, they deliver real-time CO₂e insights in compliance with leading regulatory standards.

This level of precision is essential for stakeholders aiming to track carbon intensity at the shipment level, meet disclosure requirements and integrate emissions KPIs into everyday decision-making.

The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) significantly raises the bar for sustainability reporting in the EU. Applicable to both EU-based and non-EU companies operating within an EU-regulated market, the CSRD mandates detailed disclosures on Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, including emissions reporting.

These disclosures must align with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), developed under the oversight of EFRAG and enforced by the European Commission.

Freight forwarders and maritime logistics providers are particularly impacted, as their supply chains span multiple emission categories and regions. They are now required to integrate CSRD-aligned emissions data and climate disclosures into their annual management reports, presenting a significant shift from traditional reporting methods.

While the Omnibus Simplification Package, introduced by the European Commission in early 2025, has delayed the timeline for some CSRD and Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) requirements (particularly for smaller and non-EU entities) the core obligations remain firmly in place.

The recent approval of the “Stop-the-Clock” directive by both the European Parliament and Council provides companies with additional time, but it does not remove the obligation to prepare for a more rigorous and transparent sustainability disclosure regime.

Businesses are expected to use this breathing room to strengthen their data collection systems, streamline internal processes and adopt automated compliance tools.

CSRD is not the only regulatory force reshaping emissions accountability in maritime logistics. The IMO Data Collection System (DCS) requires ships over 5,000 gross tonnage to report annual fuel consumption data, reinforcing operational transparency. Additionally, the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) now extends to maritime transport, effectively placing a price on carbon through tradable emissions allowances.

Together, these mechanisms are transforming emissions reporting from a voluntary ESG practice into a legally enforceable financial obligation.

Beyond regulation, market forces are quickly raising the bar. Investors and supply chain partners now expect real-time, audit-ready emissions data, not spreadsheets. Climate performance directly impacts access to green financing, contracts and brand trust.

This is a strategic turning point for maritime logistics. Emissions tracking now underpins operational decarbonization. Without precise, real-time data, companies can’t spot inefficiencies, benchmark progress or prove impact. With it, emissions reduction becomes a daily, data-driven decision.

Accurate emissions CO₂e measurement unlocks continuous optimization: smarter routes, better fuel use and more efficient vessel deployment. It also enables credible climate claims, appeals to sustainability-minded clients and prepares the industry for a carbon-costed future.

Despite its promise, real-time emissions CO₂e tracking in maritime logistics is not without hurdles. Many organizations face data fragmentation, where emissions data is dispersed across operators, ports and vendors.

Additionally, the lack of standardized formats complicates aggregation and reporting. Resistance from third-party stakeholders – such as leased vessel operators or charterers – can also create blind spots in the emissions chain. However, some of the best practices for adoption are:

The future of maritime decarbonization is data-driven. Real-time emissions CO₂e tracking is no longer a premium feature, it’s becoming the baseline for responsible logistics operations.

As clean fuels like methanol, ammonia, hydrogen and bio-LNG become more viable, real-time monitoring will play a pivotal role in assessing their true environmental value. Meanwhile, digital twin models, powered by live emissions data, will enable simulation-based route and fuel optimization long before a vessel leaves port.

In short, visibility is the foundation for low-carbon logistics. Companies that act now will enjoy a first-mover advantage; achieving regulatory readiness, operational resilience, and ESG leadership ahead of the curve.