Negotiations on the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Net-Zero Framework (NZF) have resumed in London, with member states considering unresolved elements of the proposed global rules for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping.
The IMO’s Intersessional Working Group on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships (ISWG-GHG-22) is meeting from 1 to 4 September. Discussions are expected to focus on policy details ahead of further consideration of the Framework later this year.
The NZF is intended to support the IMO’s 2023 commitment to reach net-zero emissions from international shipping by or around 2050. Among the issues still under discussion are definitions around clean energy and how revenues generated through carbon pricing would be managed and distributed.
The proposed pricing mechanism could generate between $10 billion and $15 billion annually. Brazil, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Kiribati, Nauru, Palau and Vanuatu have submitted proposals outlining how a future IMO fund could operate.
The talks follow a closely divided round of negotiations at MEPC 84 in April. According to the briefing, 55 countries supported retaining the NZF in its current form, while 51 favoured reopening the Framework for substantial changes, including weaker targets and the removal of carbon pricing.
Several alternative approaches are now being considered. Tuvalu has proposed strengthening the Framework through a flat levy, while Australia, Canada, South Africa and the UK have backed proceeding with the existing structure. Brazil has proposed delaying some ambition while retaining the carbon price, while Japan has proposed weaker carbon-intensity targets and removing the pricing mechanism.
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Boudewijn Siemons, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam, said: “The Port of Rotterdam strongly encourages continued discussions about a global framework for greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime sector, which will help to achieve the goals set out in the International Maritime Organization’s 2023 GHG Strategy.
“Given the inherently international nature of shipping, it is crucial to establish a level playing field worldwide. We greatly appreciate the IMO’s dedication and leadership in driving collective progress towards a sustainable maritime future. We trust the delegations to continue working constructively towards reaching a broad consensus that reflects our shared ambitions and responsibilities.”
For more information:
International Maritime Organization – https://www.imo.org/en
