Ro-Ro shipping industry launches GHG data governance body

The new industry body will govern GHG emissions data for 80% of the global car carrier fleet.

The Global Ro-Ro Community (GRC) has established the GRC Council (GRCC), which will operate the GRC and oversee its governance framework for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions data.

ClassNK, an independent verifier since the GRC’s founding, contributed to the GRCC’s operational foundation through the development of the Governance Framework, data handling rules, and preparation of maritime legal documentation. 

As a self-governing organisation of carriers and verifiers, the GRCC is tasked with the review and improvement of emissions accounting methodologies, data handling rules, and related governance documents.

The framework is intended to enhance the transparency and reliability of GHG emissions data for Ro-Ro carriers, cargo owners, and vehicle manufacturers, supporting more effective emissions management and decarbonisation strategies throughout the supply chain, the GRC said.

The GRC was established in 2024 by Smart Freight Centre, an international non-profit organisation, to promote collaboration between Ro-Ro carriers and cargo owners. PParticipating companies account for about 80% of the global car carrier fleet's transport capacity, measured in Car Equivalent Units (CEU). The GRC Methodology, published in 2025, is aligned with ISO 14083 and the GLEC Framework and enables calculation of vessel-level GHG emission intensity factors based on independently verified primary data.

Growing demand for reliable primary emissions data is being driven by regulatory developments such as FuelEU Maritime, International Maritime Organization greenhouse gas reduction measures, and new corporate Scope 3 emissions disclosure requirements, the GRC said.

Hiroshi Ochi, General Manager, Green Certification Department at ClassNK, has been elected Vice-Chair of the GRCC.