- The U.S. has withdrawn from IMO negotiations on the “Net-Zero Framework” and is urging other nations to drop their support.
- The framework, approved in April by a simple majority, will face a final vote in October requiring a two-thirds majority of ratifying states.
- Shipping accounts for approximately 80% of global trade and generates nearly 3% of the world’s CO₂ emissions, prompting calls for stronger climate measures.
- Many shipping companies back the net-zero goal but seek incentives such as levies on fossil fuels to offset the cost of cleaner fuels.
The United States has formally opposed the International Maritime Organization’s “Net-Zero Framework,” a proposal aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from global shipping. The announcement, delivered in a joint statement by senior U.S. cabinet officials, comes ahead of an upcoming IMO vote scheduled for October. The move signals Washington’s firm stance against measures it believes could raise costs for American industries and consumers, according to Reuters.
U.S. Position and Global Context on IMO Net-Zero Framework
The United States, one of the International Maritime Organization’s 176 member states, withdrew from negotiations on the “Net-Zero Framework” in April and has since urged other nations to reconsider their support. The framework, aimed at reducing shipping-related greenhouse gas emissions, was initially approved in April through a simple majority vote, with 63 countries — including China, Brazil, and several EU members — in favor, and 16 opposed. A final vote in October will require the backing of two-thirds of the 108 member states that have ratified the legislation. The IMO typically resorts to voting only when consensus cannot be reached.
Shipping is responsible for transporting approximately 80% of global trade and accounts for nearly 3% of worldwide carbon dioxide emissions. Environmental groups and investors have been pressing the sector for stronger climate commitments, including the introduction of a carbon levy. Many major shipping companies have already pledged to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, with industry associations supporting the legislation while also calling for measures such as fees on high-emission fossil fuels to offset the cost of cleaner alternatives. The World Shipping Council, representing major players like Maersk and Wallenius Wilhelmsen, has declined to comment.
President Donald Trump has also reiterated his decision to withdraw the United States from the Paris climate agreement, which targets net-zero emissions by 2050. In parallel, the U.S. is participating in United Nations talks to develop a global treaty to reduce plastic pollution, but has stated it will not support measures that impose caps on plastic output or ban specific chemicals.
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Source: Reuters
