Together, they aim to steer the world’s maritime fleet – which carries around 80 per cent of global trade and produces almost three per cent of global emissions – towards net zero emissions by 2050.
Not perfect but balanced base.
Arsenio Domínguez, secretary general of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), highlighted the “special importance” of the week-long session for the organization and its work.
He recognized that Some countries consider the plan too ambitious, while others believe it does not go far enough..
“IMO Net-Zero framework is not perfect,“he told the delegates, “However, it provides a balanced basis for our future work before it comes into force in 2027.”
“This process has been inclusive and thorough,” Domínguez added, urging delegates to approach the talks “with diplomacy and respect.”
“Here we are diplomatic and respectful of each other, we listen to everyone’s opinion, we take steps forward and always seek to improve in this constantly changing sector.”
The IMO currently has 176 member states and three associate members.
The framework
The IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee session runs until Friday, when delegates are expected to vote on adopting the framework as an amendment to the main international treaty to reduce air pollution caused by shipping and improve energy efficiency.
If adopted, the rules would apply to all ocean-going vessels over 5,000 gross tons, which together account for about 85 percent of shipping-related emissions. National governments will be responsible for enforcing the law.
Ships would be required to gradually reduce their reliance on carbon-emitting fuels and pay a price for excess emissions, with revenue expected to be reinvested in clean energy transition measures and support for developing countries.
If a ship emits below a certain threshold, it can store or market its surplus units and, similarly, if a ship completely switches to zero or near-zero emissions fuels, it qualifies for financial rewards.
Strong headwinds
The proposal, however, faces strong obstacles from the United States.
In a joint statement last week, the U.S. Secretaries of State, Energy and Transportation said the framework amounted to “a global carbon tax on the world,” warning that it could raise shipping costs by more than 10 percent and hurt American consumers.
The statement warned that Washington would consider imposing visa restrictions, trade sanctions and new port fees on countries that support the framework.