Middle East urged to get involved in ship carbon emission debate

Date: 30/9/2009

Ship-owners in the Middle East are coming under increasing pressure to join the debate on cutting carbon emissions in the industry.

Christopher Hayman, chairman of Seatrade and a leading maritime expert, has claimed that although shipping is "environmentally sound", it is "essential" for the region to be involved.

"By the end of this year options which would have a multi-billion dollar impact are due to be considered by international maritime regulators, including the United Nations," he said.

"It is time for Middle East ship-owners to have their voice heard."

Mr Hayman was speaking ahead of a conference in Dubai regarding the shipping industry and climate change.

He added that it is "just as much an issue" for people in the Middle East as it is in the rest of the world.

As yet there has been no solid conclusion on a way to cut down carbon emissions in the shipping industry.

Transportation in Dubai is governed by the Roads and Transport Authority.