At the opening of the IMO’s 2nd Extraordinary Session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC ES.2), the IMO Secretary-General acknowledged that while the newly adopted Net-Zero Framework has shortcomings, it lays a foundational basis for further advancement in regulating maritime greenhouse gas emissions, reports Safety4sea.
Net-Zero Framework Imperfect, but a Platform for Progress
The secretary noted that the framework represents a culmination of extensive consultations and deliberations across multiple sessions, designed to translate the strategic ambitions of the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy into enforceable rules. Opinions vary: some argue the framework lacks ambition, while others warn the greenhouse gas intensity (GFI) reduction targets may be overly demanding for shipping operators.
One prominent critique centers on uncertainties regarding the availability of alternative fuels—some stakeholders question whether viable low-carbon options will materialize in time to meet compliance deadlines. Conversely, others believe that stronger global regulation could generate clear market signals to accelerate development and supply of cleaner fuels.
Another concern is regulatory fragmentation: without uniform global rules, regional or national climate measures may proliferate in a patchwork fashion, undermining cohesive policy. Such fragmentation could complicate financing, investment decisions, and long-term planning within the shipping sector.
In response, the IMO framework is designed to be fuel- and technology-agnostic, enabling flexibility for shipowners and policymakers. Ongoing proposals aim to clarify reward mechanisms, fuel certification protocols, “well-to-wake” emissions accounting, and financial support models to assist member states—especially developing ones—in transition.
While not flawless, the Secretary-General emphasized that the Net-Zero Framework delivers a balanced starting point. Its adoption marks a significant milestone ahead of the framework’s planned entry into force in 2027. The IMO will now proceed to refine the regulatory elements and mechanisms needed to operationalize the framework and ensure that its goals are both realistic and impactful.
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Source: Safety4sea
