IMO Advances Talks on Greenhouse Gas Reduction in Shipping

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has taken a step forward in its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from shipping. The Intersessional Working Group on GHG Reduction (ISWG-GHG 18) concluded its latest discussions, refining proposals on emission reduction strategies.

As part of the IMO’s 2023 GHG Reduction Strategy, member states aim to adopt mid-term measures by late 2025, including:

• A marine fuel standard to progressively lower GHG intensity.
• A pricing mechanism to regulate maritime GHG emissions.

The working group used the draft “IMO net-zero framework” from MEPC 82 as a foundation, integrating inputs on potential amendments to MARPOL Annex VI. If adopted, these changes would incorporate emission reduction policies into a treaty covering 97% of global merchant shipping.

Key discussions included global fuel regulations, structuring the economic mechanism, the IMO Net-Zero Fund, and its impact on food security. While all proposals for emissions pricing remain under review, “bridging options” were explored to align different viewpoints.

A revised version of MARPOL Annex VI amendments was prepared and will be reviewed at ISWG-GHG 19 (April 1-4, 2025) before being presented at MEPC 83 (April 7-11, 2025). Delegations reaffirmed their commitment to finding common ground for sustainable shipping.