European Shippers’ Council strongly supports the European Commission’s upcoming Sustainable Transport Investment Plan (STIP) as a critical step towards building a sustainable, efficient, and future-proof transport system across Europe. A well-functioning transport network is the backbone of a thriving economy, enabling goods to move seamlessly across borders and transport modes.
The STIP is designed as the EU’s strategic roadmap to fund and speed up the decarbonisation of transport. Its main goals are to scale up production of sustainable fuels, expand recharging and refuelling infrastructure, mobilise public and private investment, and promote international partnerships for renewable energy. By de-risking private capital and bridging the price gap between fossil fuels and low-carbon alternatives, the plan aims to make sustainable options commercially viable across all transport modes.
ESC members recognise that decarbonising transport, particularly aviation, maritime, and long-haul road freight, remains a major challenge. Sustainable aviation fuels and low-carbon maritime fuels are indispensable to meeting climate targets, but high production costs, limited infrastructure, and regulatory uncertainty continue to slow adoption. Funding tools such as AFIF, the Hydrogen Bank, Horizon Europe, and InvestEU will be crucial in addressing these barriers and accelerating large-scale deployment.
ESC also underlines the importance of integrated, multimodal solutions. Logistics hubs, connected energy and transport systems, and accessible sustainable fuels must be prioritised to ensure that all operators, including SMEs, can participate in the transition.
European Shippers’ Council welcomes the STIP as a unique opportunity to align investment with Europe’s climate ambitions while safeguarding competitiveness and resilient supply chains. ESC stands ready to contribute industry expertise to ensure the plan delivers on its objectives.