The IMO Net-Zero Framework is reflecting the power of international cooperation and multilateralism in addressing global climate challenges.- The framework establishes goals to reduce shipping emissions by 20% by 2030, 70% by 2040, and reach net-zero by around 2050.
- The IMO aims to encourage technological innovation in alternative fuels and propulsion methods.
Every day, tens of thousands of massive cargo ships traverse the globe, transporting everything from grain and clothing to electronics and cars—accounting for nearly 90 per cent of global trade. However, this essential industry also contributes significantly to climate change, producing around 3 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. After years of delay and complex negotiations, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the UN agency responsible for regulating global shipping, adopted the IMO Net-Zero Framework that aims to make the shipping industry carbon neutral by mid-century, following years of dialogue among member states, including vulnerable small island nations and major maritime powers, as detailed in the report released by UN News.
IMO’s Net-Zero Framework for Greener Shipping
The journey began in 2011 with the first mandatory energy efficiency measures for ships and advanced in 2018 with the Initial IMO Strategy, which introduced the first international targets to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the shipping industry. Building on this foundation, the IMO raised its climate goals in 2023 by setting concrete emission reduction targets: a minimum 20% cut by 2030 (striving for 30%), 70% by 2040 (striving for 80%), and net-zero emissions by around 2050.
Ships that outperform emissions targets can earn and trade surplus credits, creating financial incentives for cleaner operations. The fund will support low-emission innovations and assist developing nations with technology transfer, capacity building, and access to alternative fuels. The regulations apply to large ocean-going vessels over 5,000 gross tonnes, which are responsible for roughly 85% of the sector’s emissions. The first compliance year is set for 2028.
Beyond emissions, the IMO is also addressing related environmental concerns like biofouling (which increases fuel use), underwater noise pollution (which impacts marine life), and ballast water management (to prevent the spread of invasive species).
Secretary-General on the IMO Net-Zero Framework
The approval of the IMO Net-Zero Framework in 2025 was hailed as a major achievement for both climate action and international cooperation. IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez emphasized that the agreement demonstrated the continued relevance of multilateralism and the UN system.
Dominguez highlighted that the shipping industry’s focus is now on achieving the 2030 targets—cutting emissions by at least 20% and ensuring a minimum 5% uptake of alternative fuels. He stressed that global trade, which moved over 12 billion tonnes of cargo in 2023, depends heavily on shipping—an efficient but environmentally impactful mode of transport. Therefore, regulating the sector’s emissions is not just about environmental protection but about reshaping the machinery of global commerce.
Technologies such as ammonia and hydrogen fuels, wind propulsion, solar-assisted systems, and onboard carbon capture are already under consideration. He said that IMO’s regulatory approach is intended to encourage such advancements.Safety and training for seafarers will also be a priority, especially as the industry begins handling new and potentially hazardous fuels.
Looking ahead, he expressed confidence in the IMO’s ability to implement the framework effectively. The next steps will involve addressing concerns from member states and finalizing guidelines for the pricing mechanism and other components, ensuring the industry is ready to act once the amendments come into force in 2027.
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Source: UNnews
