IMO advances on net-zero framework for shipping

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has made significant progress in negotiating binding global regulations for the net-zero framework.

These regulations aim to reduce GHG emissions from ships as outlined in the 2023 IMO Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions.

At the end of the 82nd session of the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee, which took place from 30 September to 4 October 2024, Member States found more areas of convergence in their stances.

They created a draft legal language to guide discussions on potential “mid-term measures” for reducing GHG emissions, set to be implemented in 2025.

Proposed “mid-term GHG reduction measures” include a goal-based marine fuel standard and a global maritime GHG emissions pricing system, building on previously accepted “short-term” initiatives.

They intend to accelerate the global maritime industry’s transition to net-zero GHG emissions by or around 2050.

MEPC 82’s draft legal text incorporates comments and ideas from Member States and international organisations about potential revisions to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL, Annex VI).

If ratified, these modifications would make the proposed new measures international law.

During the event, there was also discussion on the possibility of establishing an IMO GHG Intensity Registry and an IMO fund/facility to aid in the implementation of the technical and economic components of GHG reduction initiatives.

IMO Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, praised the positive environment throughout the sessions: “I welcome your continued demonstrated commitment. It has allowed us to identify further areas of convergence on defining the legal framework for the IMO Net Zero Framework, that will effectively guide the next round of dialogue. I am convinced that at the next session, you will reach an agreement.”

The MEPC will conduct its next session (MEPC 83) from 7 to 11 April 2025, at which Members are expected to endorse the revisions prior to their formal adoption in October 2025.

Recently, Comorian officials successfully assessed the Port of Mutsamudu on Anjouan with the IMO cooperation.