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International Maritime Organization

30.10.2025

  1. International Maritime Organization

Context
At a recent International Maritime Organization (IMO) meeting in London, 57 nations supported delaying the adoption of a carbon-free global shipping framework by one year, primarily due to opposition from the United States.

About the News
Background:
The IMO had planned to implement a global framework for decarbonising international shipping as part of its 2023 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Strategy. Some countries, however, expressed concerns about potential trade implications and compliance costs, leading to the deferral of the plan.

Immediate Impact:
The postponement highlights the tension between climate commitments and economic interests in global maritime governance.

 

 

International Maritime Organization (IMO)

What it is:
The International Maritime Organization is a specialized United Nations agency responsible for promoting safe, secure, and environmentally sound international shipping. It ensures uniform global standards to prevent any member nation from gaining unfair advantage through weak safety or environmental practices.

Establishment:
Created by a UN Convention in 1948, the IMO came into force in 1958 and held its first meeting in 1959. Its headquarters are in London, United Kingdom.

Functions:

  • Develops and updates international conventions such as SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) and MARPOL (Prevention of Pollution from Ships).
  • Regulates ship design, construction, and operation standards to minimize risks and pollution.
  • Oversees global standards for seafarer training and certification.
  • Works toward UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG-14 (Life Below Water).

 

 

Framework for Carbon-Free Shipping

What it is:
A strategic plan under the IMO’s 2023 GHG Strategy to guide the maritime industry’s shift toward net-zero emissions by 2050.

Objective:
To reduce carbon intensity of global shipping by at least 40% by 2030 and achieve full decarbonisation mid-century through common standards and carbon pricing.

Key Features:

  • Introduces a fuel standard promoting low- and zero-emission alternatives such as green hydrogen and ammonia.
  • Establishes a global carbon-pricing mechanism to reward cleaner technologies.
  • Begins phased implementation from 2027 in alignment with Paris Agreement goals.
  • Encourages innovation in fuel efficiency and equitable access to finance for developing nations.

 

Conclusion
The delay in adopting the carbon-free shipping framework reflects differing national priorities but underscores the urgency of balancing economic realities with global climate objectives. A consensus-driven implementation is essential to achieve sustainable maritime growth.

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