At the latest meeting of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the Green Shipping Coalition (GSC) expressed its concern over the slow progress in implementing key measures to reduce climate pollution in the shipping industry. The coalition underlined the urgency of complying with the IMO’s 2023 greenhouse gas (GHG) strategy, which sets a 30% reduction in emissions by 2030.
Delaine McCullough, chair of the Clean Shipping Coalition, criticized the insufficient resources allocated to review the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) standards. These standards, crucial for improving energy efficiency, are essential to achieving the 2030 emissions reduction target. McCullough emphasized the lack of urgency in the discussions, warning that delays in strengthening energy efficiency measures could jeopardize the industry’s ability to meet its climate goals.
“It is encouraging to see that more and more IMO Member States support a universal tax on GHG emissions,” stated McCullough. “However, the lack of progress in making difficult decisions is worrying. Without immediate action on efficiency measures, the goal of reducing emissions by 30% by 2030 is at serious risk.”
Other industry experts shared McCullough’s concerns. Bastien Bonnet-Catalloube, a decarbonization expert, pointed out that although discussions on a GHG tax have gained momentum at the meeting, a high and ambitious tax is essential to uphold the polluter pays principle. Meanwhile, Constance Dijkstra, IMO Policy Manager at Transport & Environment, warned that the Global Fuel Standard being negotiated could incentivize the use of harmful biofuels instead of greener alternatives like hydrogen.
The meeting also addressed other environmental issues, such as black carbon emissions. Dr. Sian Prior of the Clean Arctic Alliance welcomed the potential regulation of black carbon emissions by the IMO, which would reduce the impact of shipping on Arctic regions. Similarly, the approval of two new Emission Control Areas in the Canadian Arctic and the Norwegian Sea was praised by Sönke Diesener of NABU, who highlighted their importance for reducing air pollution and protecting the environment.
However, frustrations were evident regarding delays in resolving certain issues. Eelco Leemans of the Clean Arctic Alliance criticized the IMO for postponing discussions on scrubbers, devices used to clean ship emissions. He called for a total ban on scrubbers in the Arctic, citing their environmental harm.
Furthermore, Amy Youngman of the Environmental Investigation Agency applauded the IMO’s commitment to addressing plastic pollution but urged quick action to prevent further damage to marine ecosystems. Sandra Chiri of Ocean Conservancy also expressed concern over the slow pace of decision-making at the IMO, warning that time is running out to meet the goals of the 2023 GHG strategy.
With only six months remaining before the next key deadline, Anaïs Rios of Seas At Risk emphasized the need for immediate action, urging the IMO to accelerate its efforts to ensure the shipping industry meets its decarbonization targets.
The meeting underscored the growing pressure on the global shipping sector to adopt more aggressive policies that limit its environmental impact and fulfill international climate commitments.
