The Panama Canal has unveiled a dedicated transit option for low-emission vessels, NetZero Slot, in a move to advance sustainability in maritime trade.
This step aligns with global efforts to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, encouraging vessels to adopt low-carbon technologies and contribute to a greener future.
Starting from 5 October 2025, the first phase of the NetZero Slot will be introduced, providing a dedicated weekly transit slot for Neopanamax vessels that meet strict low-emission criteria.
Unlike other transit slots, this one will not be auctioned but allocated through a competition held 30 days before the transit date. To qualify, vessels must be equipped with dual-fuel engines and use fuel with a carbon intensity of less than 75 gCO2(e)/MJ, measured from extraction to combustion (Well-to-Wake).
A second phase is planned for 2026, with further details to be announced in a future advisory.
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Vessels securing the NetZero Slot will benefit from flexible transit dates within the allocated week, a guaranteed transit time of 24 hours, and inclusion of just-in-time (JIT) service to enhance scheduling and efficiency.
Ilya Espino de Marotta, Deputy Administrator and Sustainability Officer of the Panama Canal, highlighted the significance of this initiative, noting: “By motivating investment in vessels capable of using low-carbon fuels and energy-efficient technologies, we are recognising and rewarding our clients who are leading the transition toward a more sustainable future, while we await the development of regional infrastructure and logistics that will allow us to make steady progress toward global decarbonisation goals.”
In fiscal year 2024 (FY2024), the Panama Canal witnessed several operational improvements despite challenges from reduced rainfall. Among the highlights was a 1 per cent drop in vessel wait times, translating to roughly 15 fewer hours on average compared to FY2023.
