Urgent call for IMO to accept net-zero framework
A broad coalition of maritime industry associations has formally called on member states of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to adopt the Net-Zero Framework by 2026.
The declaration is supported by 87 signatories, including major ports handling more than 340 million tonnes of cargo annually and listed companies with a combined market value of about $140 billion. Signatories expressed strong support for IMO’s efforts to set out a clear and credible pathway for decarbonising one of the world’s most vital industries.
As a reminder, during a vote on the last day of the Marine Environment Protection Committee, 2nd Extraordinary Session MEPC/ES.2 (14 to 17 October 2025), IMO agreed to delay the planned adoption of the Net-Zero Framework by one year.
IMO’s decision is a severe setback for the entire industry. Everyone is aware that net zero is only achievable with synthetic fuels. But without the Net Zero Framework, the business case for the necessary investments in e-fuels and e-fuel production is a lot weaker. IMO must find the strength to vote for the NZF this year … Dr Uwe Lauber, CEO of Everllence.
Difficult compromise reached
The coalition acknowledged the years of negotiations that led to the development of the IMO’s Greenhouse Gas Strategy (GHG) and Net-Zero Framework. According to the statement, the adopted framework represents a “hard-won compromise” between governments, industry stakeholders and civil society.
IMO’s Net-Zero Framework is a crucial step towards creating the regulatory clarity our industry needs to accelerate the decarbonisation of shipping. Clear and predictable global rules will help free up investment across the value chain – from fuel production and infrastructure to ships and off-take agreements … Hans Olav Raen, CEO of Yara Clean Ammonia.
Proponents argue that the framework strikes a necessary balance: ambitious enough to drive transformation, but pragmatic enough to ensure global participation. The framework has already received overwhelming support from the entire maritime sector, they noted.
One global standard
Proponents stress that global regulation is essential for an industry that operates across borders. A uniform, IMO-led framework would establish one set of rules for emissions from all international shipping, providing clarity for shipowners, fuel producers, ports and investors worldwide.
Swift adoption of the IMO’s Net-Zero Framework in 2026 would send a strong signal to producers and investors that Europe is committed to a global transition with a level playing field, making available the quantities of clean fuel urgently needed by shipping ….Maarten Wetselaar, CEO of Moeve
Industry leaders say previous regulatory signals from the IMO are already starting to change the market. The production of low-carbon fuels is increasing, energy-efficient technologies are being deployed and new ships capable of running on alternative fuels are being ordered and delivered. Meanwhile, bunkering infrastructure for new fuels is being developed in several regions.
Investment at stake
The coalition stressed that predictability is essential for large-scale investments. Ships, fuel facilities and port infrastructure typically involve long lifetimes and high capital expenditure.
Business leaders warn that any delay in approving the framework could lead to confusion and uncertainty, potentially undermining the billions already committed to clean shipping technologies. Further delays, they say, could slow progress and undermine investor confidence at a crucial time for the sector’s energy transition.
“Taking action now will create the market conditions needed for new fuels and technologies,” the statement said, adding that the transition will help create jobs, innovation and long-term economic growth.
Strong signal
A call for immediate action
Proponents argue that IMO now has a clear and predictable structure to guide the clean shipping transition, while allowing the sector to continue to expand its crucial role in global trade.
Without a clear and predictable demand signal anchored in global regulations, investments will slow down and projects will struggle to reach a final investment decision. Rapid adoption of the IMO Net Zero Framework remains the best way to scale up green hydrogen fuels globally for shipping and we urge governments to overcome last year’s unfortunate delay, … said Joe Williams, CEO of Green Hydrogen Organisation.
The coalition urges member states to formally adopt the Net-Zero Framework in 2026, arguing that timely action will provide the certainty needed to accelerate decarbonisation and keep the sector on track to achieve net-zero emissions by or around 2050.
Source: Safety4Sea
Image: AI
Windassist sponsor