IMO Postpones Adoption of Net Zero Framework, Delaying Global Action to Decarbonize Shipping

Member States at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) today postponed for a year the vote to adopt the Net Zero Framework — a plan to phase out fossil fuels from the maritime sector by 2050. The Framework would introduce the world’s first legally binding global carbon price for any sector and a fund for distributing revenues. It would also include a global fuel standard accounting for the full lifecycle emissions of maritime fuels — from production, through the supply chain, to combustion — and new rules to ensure ships operate efficiently. The postponement delays critical progress, pushing back the start of implementation initially planned for 2028 and slowing negotiations on detailed guidelines that were expected to begin next week at the 20th Intersessional Working Group on Greenhouse Gas Emissions (ISWG-GHG 20). 

 “Today’s delay in adopting the Net Zero Framework is a missed opportunity — and a setback that will derail the timeline countries agreed to under the International Maritime Organization’s 2023 Strategy. Every delay means that innovation will struggle to scale, inequities will deepen, and the transition to clean shipping will become harder and more costly. 

We know progress is possible when governments act together, now they have the opportunity to prove it. We cannot afford to wait any longer. It is vital that Member States return to the negotiating table and deliver a measure that reflects wise ambition — one that delivers a just and effective energy transition to secure a cleaner, more equitable future for generations to come.” 

•  Natacha Stamatiou, Manager, Global Shipping and IMO Delegation Lead at Environmental Defense Fund   

Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is working across modes to ensure that global transport is a thriving part of sustainable development, the global economy, and can deliver the goods and mobility people need to thrive without compromising clean air or climate stability. EDF is committed to making the shipping sector’s transition away from fossil fuels as efficient and fair as possible. EDF brings relevant scientific knowledge and research to the IMO and serves as a trusted partner and advisor to both Member States and industry. EDF proudly works with industry partners to ensure their projects are scientifically sound and to minimize the impacts of marine fuels on the climate, human health and the environment.