IMO Continues Work on Net-Zero Framework as Path to Global Action on Shipping Decarbonization

(LONDON, United Kingdom) Member States at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) today took a step forward toward the effort to decarbonize global shipping. At the close of the 84th meeting of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 84), countries confirmed that the IMO Net-Zero Framework (NZF) — which would turn a plan to phase out fossil fuels from the maritime sector by 2050 into practice — will serve as the foundation for upcoming negotiations in addition to alternate proposals. With the architecture of the NZF preserved, Member States will work through the concerns and priorities of all parties to develop a binding regulatory measure to reduce emissions from the sector. Two intersessional working groups (ISWG-GHG 22 and ISWG-GHG 23) will convene in the coming months, alongside a technical expert workshop on fuel supply chain traceability, to address outstanding concerns and advance the detailed guidelines needed to bring the framework to adoption at the next MEPC meeting in November 23-27, 2026.

"Decarbonizing shipping isn't just good for the climate — it's good for business. The market is ready. Investors are ready. What's needed now is certainty — and the Net-Zero Framework is the foundation to build it on.”

•    Mark Brownstein, Senior Vice President, Energy Transition at Environmental Defense Fund

Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is working across modes to ensure that global transport is a thriving part of sustainable development, the global economy, and can deliver the goods and mobility people need to thrive without compromising clean air or climate stability. EDF is committed to making the shipping sector’s transition away from fossil fuels as efficient and fair as possible. EDF brings relevant scientific knowledge and research to the IMO and serves as a trusted partner and advisor to both Member States and industry. EDF also works with industry partners to ensure their projects are scientifically sound and to minimize the impacts of marine fuels on the climate, human health and the environment. For more information, please visit: https://www.edf.org/reducing-shippings-climate-impact.