A new report from the Sea Cargo Charter (SCC), a global climate alignment initiative led by the Global Maritime Forum, reveals that 19 out of 34 shipowners and charterers reduced their emission intensity in 2024. The findings reflect growing momentum toward climate transparency and emissions accountability in the maritime sector.
Despite this progress, signatories remain 12% behind the minimum international climate goals set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO)—a rise from 9% in 2023. The shortfall highlights the urgent need for accelerated action, as IMO targets continue to tighten annually under its updated 2023 GHG Strategy.
Data-Driven Progress and Increased Transparency
The 2025 Annual Disclosure Report underscores improvements in data integrity and operational practices across the sector. Notably, over 90% of emissions data was verified by third parties—a significant leap from just 50% the previous year, showcasing signatories’ increasing commitment to science-based reporting.
Eight signatories also improved their climate alignment scores, while several companies reported greater integration of emissions metrics into their operational and chartering decisions.
Operational Challenges Persist
While progress is evident, external and operational barriers—such as port draft restrictions, adverse weather, inefficient routing, and short-term charter dependencies—continue to hinder alignment with global targets.
On average in 2024, signatories were:
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12% behind minimum climate goals
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18% behind the IMO’s “striving” targets
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Only five companies were aligned with minimum targets, and three with the higher benchmarks
A Collaborative Model for Industry Transformation
The Sea Cargo Charter now represents about 18% of global bulk cargo transported by sea. Its members are increasingly using the platform not only for compliance, but also as a forum for shared learning and sector-wide improvement.
Engebret Dahm, Sea Cargo Charter vice chair and CEO of Klaveness Combination Carriers said that “This year’s results demonstrate that even as the IMO’s climate goals grow more ambitious, signatories are stepping up with greater transparency, operational improvements, and data integrity. The Charter is not just a reporting tool—it is a stepping stone toward achieving the IMO’s Greenhouse Gas Strategy and Global Transport Zero Framework.”
The 2025 Sea Cargo Charter Disclosure Report highlights both progress and persistent challenges in the maritime sector’s decarbonization journey. While a growing number of shipowners and charterers are improving their emission intensity and transparency, the sector still falls short of meeting international climate targets.
The findings emphasize the need for stronger operational reforms, technological innovation, and industry-wide collaboration. As climate regulations tighten, initiatives like the Sea Cargo Charter will play a vital role in steering global shipping toward a more sustainable and climate-aligned future.
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Source: Global Maritime Forum
