Clean Shipping Coalition urges IMO to adopt Net-Zero Framework

The Clean Shipping Coalition is urging International Maritime Organization (IMO) member states to uphold the Net-Zero Framework (NZF) during upcoming meetings. The coalition warns against alternative proposals that could weaken climate action within the shipping sector.

The NZF is a compromise climate agreement designed to meet the IMO’s Greenhouse Gas Strategy goals, which include decarbonization by 2050 and interim emission reduction targets of 30% by 2030 and 80% by 2040. Lukas Leppert, President of the Clean Shipping Coalition, stated that while the framework may be less ambitious than desired, it remains the most effective tool available for a just and equitable energy transition.

The framework includes a “global fuel standard” (GFS) that would require ship operators to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from fuels or face penalties. It also proposes a mechanism to place a price on a portion of the greenhouse gases emitted by ships. The shipping industry currently accounts for approximately 2-3% of global greenhouse gas emissions.