International Maritime Organization on the Brink of a Global System to Reduce Emissions from Shipping

The International Maritime Organization today concluded the 82nd meeting of its Marine Environmental Protection Committee (MEPC). 

Delegates made progress on mid-term measures to decarbonize shipping, which include an economic measure and a global fuel standard. 

“The International Maritime Organization’s leadership brought member states a step closer to finding ways to successfully and fairly tackle shipping emissions across the globe, said Angie Farrag-Thibault, Associate Vice-President, Global Transportation at Environmental Defense Fund. 

While several proposals remain on the table, there is more clarity on the differences between them and a willingness from member states to understand each other's positions. Important issues – such as the consequences on food security and the cost of freight – have been raised for further analysis. Some consensus points are evident, such as the concept of a redistribution mechanism. 

“A lot of work and cooperation will now be needed to resolve the many elements in the economic and technical measures before the political negotiations can progress to conclusion in 2025,” added Farrag-Thibault. “We are confident that member states will grasp the opportunity for the industry to deliver a flat greenhouse gas contribution, such as a levy, together with a global fuel standard that accounts for the full lifecycle of marine fuels. This will ensure the transition to clean shipping meets climate targets in the fairest and most cost-effective way possible, while protecting vulnerable communities and the environment, and spurring a healthy global trade system in the long run.”

The details of such measures must now be refined during upcoming Intersessional Working Group meetings leading up to their adoption at MEPC 83 in April of 2025. The IMO’s revised 2023 Strategy sets striving emissions reductions targets of 30% by 2030 and 80% by 2040, achieving net-zero by or around 2050.

As a consultative member of the IMO, Environmental Defense Fund is committed to making the organization’s short-term and mid-term measures a success to decarbonize shipping. Our work centers on bringing scientific knowledge and research to advance international collaboration and ensure a just and equitable transition, while supporting a thriving shipping sector. By bringing relevant scientific research to IMO, serving as a trusted advisor to Member States and working with industry partners, EDF strives to ensure policies and projects appropriately protect the climate, human health and the environment. For more information, please visit: https://www.edf.org/reducing-shippings-climate-impact.