In recent months, U.S. trade has gained renewed attention. Yet despite the vital role shipping plays in the economy, many overlook the complex journey goods take to reach their doorstep.
Ocean transport accounts for over 90% of global trade. At any given moment, more than 50,000 ships may be crossing oceans or operating at ports worldwide. Shipping is not only essential to the global economy, but it also significantly impacts air quality, the climate, and ocean health.
Most large vessels operate on some of the dirtiest fuels available. Even while docked, they continue burning these fuels, releasing harmful emissions into the air — much like an idling truck but on a far larger scale.
The shipping sector emits an estimated 1 billion metric tons of greenhouse gases annually. These emissions contribute to an estimated 250,000 premature deaths and six million childhood asthma cases worldwide each year, disproportionately affecting economically burdened port communities.
In the United States, approximately 39 million people live near ports and are directly exposed to elevated levels of pollution, leading to increased rates of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Recognizing the urgent need for reform, legislators have introduced the International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act (IMPAA) to address these environmental and health challenges. Sponsored by Representatives Doris Matsui (D-CA) and Kevin Mullin (D-CA) in the House and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) in the Senate, IMPAA would empower the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to impose pollution fees on large marine vessels unloading cargo at U.S. ports.
The potential IMPAA impact on shipping routes has sparked conversation across the logistics and trade sectors. Under the bill, ships would pay:
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A $150-per-ton maritime carbon fee, and
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Additional fees for emissions of nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxides, and fine particulate matter.
If enacted, IMPAA could generate approximately $250 billion over 10 years. These funds would be allocated toward:
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Modernizing the Jones Act fleet
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Revitalizing U.S. shipbuilding
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Decarbonizing the maritime economy
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Addressing pollution in port communities
Some concerns have been raised about whether these new pollution fees might divert ships away from U.S. ports and alter established trade routes. However, a recent study commissioned by Ocean Conservancy examined the potential IMPAA impact on shipping routes and found encouraging results.
The findings suggest that the risk of significant diversion to Canadian or Mexican ports is low. In most cases, established shipping routes remain economically and environmentally favorable even after accounting for the additional pollution fees.
This outcome is positive news for U.S. ports, coastal communities, and the broader effort to foster cleaner, more sustainable maritime operations.
By complementing IMPAA with initiatives like the Clean Shipping Act, the United States has a unique opportunity to lead the global transition toward a zero-emission maritime future. Together, these policies could significantly reduce shipping emissions, protect public health, and support a cleaner economy.
As Congress prepares to reconsider the legislation, industry leaders, policymakers, and the public are encouraged to learn more about the IMPAA impact on shipping routes and advocate for effective climate action.
For additional information and to get involved, visit Ocean Conservancy’s Action Center.