ITF Urges Constructive Consensus Building After IMO Decarbonization Delay

By
Mfame Editor
-
17

The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) is calling for a constructive and inclusive approach to maritime decarbonization, following the recent decision by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to delay a critical vote.

IMO Decarbonization Delay

The key international body responsible for maritime regulation has postponed a vote on the framework for its climate strategy.

  • The International Maritime Organization (IMO) decided on October 17 to postpone the vote on its Net-Zero Framework for one year.
  • This framework was intended to detail measures for implementing the IMO’s 2023 greenhouse gas (GHG) strategy, including timelines and obligations for the industry.
  • The ITF views the delay as a reflection of the “complexity and importance” of the decisions required for the maritime transition.

Call to Rebuild Consensus

The ITF is urging global governments to use the delay constructively to build a unified path forward that secures the interests of the workforce.

  • The Federation is urging IMO Member States to use the coming year to rebuild trust and reach an agreement on a practical path to decarbonizing shipping.
  • The goal is to ensure a path that is fair and practical, and one that puts seafarers at its core.
  • The ITF hopes the time will be used to strengthen trust and consensus at the IMO, supporting both the industry’s transition and the professional seafarers who will implement it.

Seafarers and a Just Transition

The ITF emphasizes that the decarbonization process cannot wait and must prioritize the workforce responsible for executing the shift.

  • The Federation stressed that the “process of decarbonising shipping cannot wait – and it cannot succeed without seafarers.”
  • The ITF noted that seafarers and the industry are “already moving ahead,” operating new, cleaner vessels and developing the necessary skills.
  • The ITF, which represents over 700 transport unions globally, advocates for a just transition that prioritizes safety, skills, and decent work as the industry moves toward new fuels and technologies.

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Source: International Transport Worker Federation