- Sutton urges the industry to carry on and refocus.
- Ali and Osman say the 12-month delay allows better dialogue.
- Leaders stress the need for strong multilateral cooperation.
At the Global Maritime Forum Annual Summit 2025, industry leaders took a moment to discuss the postponed Net Zero Framework and explore ways the sector can keep the momentum going, even with the delay, reports Safety4Sea.
Delay Viewed as a Setback, Not a Defeat
Belgium’s Minister of Justice and the North Sea, Annelies Verlinden, expressed her disappointment, stating “It was a disappointment that a net zero framework did not land yet, but I will not give up. I see that there is still a lot of energy within IMO and within many countries to move forward in that direction.” Swire Shipping CEO Jeremy Sutton called the postponement unexpected but urged continued progress: “We just need to carry on. This is not the end, it’s a moment to reset and focus on the future.”
Kamal-Deen Ali, Director General of the Ghana Maritime Authority, described the delay as an opportunity, noting that expanding dialogue could help find a solution. MISC Group President and Group CEO Zahid Osman added that “It is probably the best outcome considering the negotiations have taken so long. Now it’s just a delay of 12 months, and I think we can cope with that.” Experts agreed that although the delay prolongs regulatory uncertainty, it may also allow for adjustments that lead to stronger long-term adoption.
Global Collaboration Remains Essential
Speakers stressed the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing climate and geopolitical pressures. Verlinden highlighted this need, saying: “Given geopolitical tensions, given climate change, we really need to invest in multilateralism, working together, collaboration to overcome these issues.”
Kamal-Deen Ali emphasized supporting developing regions as decarbonization progresses:
“We all know that we are supposed to contribute towards decarbonization. But the question is how do you get the Global South to adjust to the short-term shocks?” Mauritius’ Minister of Blue Economy and Fisheries, Arvin Boolell, emphasized the importance of giving special attention to small and least-developed economies, highlighting their distinct vulnerabilities.
Navigating the Realities of a Multi-Fuel Future
Decarbonization discussions also focused heavily on green fuel availability, which remains limited. Zahid Osman highlighted the importance of supply, stating: “The key for shipping is to have available green fuels. At the moment, availability is very limited. There are many pathways—ammonia, hydrogen, methanol, biofuel—but we are putting our resources into ammonia, which we believe has a better chance for adoption.”
Jeremy Sutton advocated for a diversified strategy and noted Swire Shipping’s use of biofuels: “We’re very keen on biofuels and are already bunkering many of our ships with them. I encourage us not to dismiss any options. The front runners will become apparent over time.” He added that shipping will inevitably depend on multiple fuels, saying: “There won’t be a single fuel source for the foreseeable future. We need to experiment, adapt, and let the best solutions emerge.”
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Safety4Sea
