Decarbonisation is within reach for waterway transport

07 April 2025

The decarbonisation of inland waterway transport (IWT) is within reach. The inland waterway transport and inland ports sector calls upon the Commission and Member States to seize the opportunity of the upcoming Sustainable Transport Investment Plan to help make it happen by creating the enabling EU framework.

Through prioritised support for HVO as a renewable fuel for IWT (1.6 Mt/y) and the establishment of regulatory certainty in a strongly coordinated effort by the Commission and Member States, IWT can achieve decarbonisation in the short term. The compatibility of HVO with IWT engines and existing refuelling infrastructure is a key advantage for facilitating a smooth transition. IWT is also an ideal carrier for large volume shipments of this renewable drop-in fuel.

As energy diversification is essential to reduce energy dependence and vulnerability, pro-innovation regulation and funding will be an essential enabler to de-risk and increase current investment by the sector in advanced alternative energy and high-tech innovation in the medium term.

IWT is committed to continuing to play its crucial role in the safe and sustainable movement of the building blocks of the EU economy and in relieving congested land transport networks. The sector calls on the Commission and EU Member States to support this role in the Sustainable Transport Investment Plan, in the Port Strategy and the Waterborne Industrial Strategy, in order to strengthen a competitive and resilient EU manufacturing, trade and security ecosystem.