IMO approves global shipping net-zero regulations

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has approved draft amendments

to MARPOL Annex VI, introducing an updated net-zero framework to cut

international shipping emissions to net-zero by 2050.

The IMO Net-Zero Framework is the first to mandate both emissions limits

and GHG pricing across an entire industry.

Approved at MEPC 83 (7–11 April 2025), the plan includes a new fuel

standard and global emissions pricing.

Set for formal adoption in October 2025 and enforcement in 2027, the rules

will apply to ocean-going ships over 5,000 gross tonnes—responsible for 85 per

cent of international shipping’s CO2 emissions.

Under the updated net-zero framework, ships must annually reduce fuel GHG

intensity based on tiered targets, using the 2008 baseline of 93.3 gCO₂eq/MJ

(Well-to-Wake):

The upper tier (base target) calls for a 4 per cent cut by 2028, rising to

30 per cent by 2035.

The lower tier (compliance target) requires a 17 per cent cut by 2028,

increasing to 43 per cent by 2035.

Closing the meeting, IMO Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, stated: “The

approval of draft amendments to MARPOL Annex VI mandating the IMO net-zero

framework represents another significant step in our collective efforts to

combat climate change, to modernise shipping and demonstrates that IMO delivers

on its commitments.

“Now, it is important to continue working together, engaging in dialogue

and listening to one another, if we are to create the conditions for successful

adoption.”

In March, IMO released interim guidelines (MSC.1/Circ.1687) for the safety

of ships using ammonia as fuel, marking a key step in regulatory support for

alternative fuels.