IMO advances in net-zero framework for shipping

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has made significant strides in establishing binding global regulations under its net-zero framework, targeting greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions as outlined in the 2023 strategy for reducing emissions from ships.

During the 82nd session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) from September 30 to October 4, 2024, Member States identified common ground and drafted a legal text to guide ongoing negotiations on “mid-term measures” for GHG reduction, expected to be finalized in 2025. These measures include a goal-based marine fuel standard mandating low-GHG fuels and a global pricing mechanism for maritime emissions, aiming for net-zero GHG emissions by around 2050.

The draft legal text incorporates suggestions from Member States and international organizations for amendments to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL, Annex VI), which would formalize these measures into international law. Discussions also addressed the potential establishment of an IMO GHG Intensity Registry and funding to support implementation.

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez praised the constructive discussions, expressing confidence that an agreement will be reached in the next session. MEPC 83 is scheduled for April 7-11, 2025, where the amendments are anticipated to be approved ahead of formal adoption in October 2025.

Negotiations will continue until MEPC 83 to resolve differences and refine the draft text. Key inter-sessional meetings are planned, including ISWG-GHG 18 (February 17-21, 2025), and ISWG-GHG 19 (April 2025), Additionally, the Committee addressed various issues, including Reviewing challenges with the short-term GHG reduction measure (CII), Designating the Canadian Arctic and the Norwegian Sea as Emission Control Areas for nitrogen and sulfur oxides, Approving an Action Plan to reduce underwater noise from shipping, Establishing guidance for the transboundary movement of ships intended for recycling, reducing environmental risks linked to plastic pellet transport and designating Nusa Penida Islands and Gili Matra Islands as a new Particularly Sensitive Sea Area.