IMO’s vision for 2025: Advancing green transition and maritime security

What are the long-term strategies for achieving the 2050 decarbonisation targets and how the member states are supported in this?

IMO Member States adopted a Revised GHG Strategy in 2023, with ambitious aims to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping by or around 2050. Mandatory regulations have already been set to improve energy efficiency of ships in the short term. Mid-term measures are currently under discussion, which include a global fuel standard mandating the reduction of GHG intensity in marine fuels, and a global pricing mechanism for GHG emissions. We expect these to be adopted in October 2025. We have also launched major programmes such as IMO’s GreenVoyage2050 programme and Future Fuels project to support Member States in reaching these goals.

How is IMO adapting its regulatory framework to keep pace with rapid technologies and environmental changes?

IMO updates its regulations often in order to keep up with the changes in the industry – including technological shifts and enhanced climate action. We then assist the Member States that need support to implement the regulations...The IMO has been exploring alternative fuels such as ammonia, hydrogen, biofuels, and methanol. Which alternative fuels do you see as the most viable and scalable for the shipping industry in the near future? How does IMO plan to facilitate the adoption of alternate fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia or bio-fuels in the maritime sector?

IMO is technology and fuel agnostic – the Organization adopts regulations allowing the market to deliver and develop fuels. That said, there are several alternative marine fuels and new technologies....For all of these, there is a need to consider issues such as safety, regulation, pricing, infrastructural availability, lifecycle emissions, supply chain constraints, barriers to adoption and more.  We continue to encourage early movers in the sector, and support Member States through initiatives such as the GreenVoyage2050 project, which focuses on piloting and trialing new GHG reduction technologies. We are also working on various regulations to ensure the safe utilization of these fuels on ships.

Safety remains a key concern with new fuel technologies. What regulatory measures is the IMO taking to ensure the safe handling and operation of vessels powered by alternative fuels?

A just and fair transition means seafarer safety is of utmost importance in the journey to decarbonisation...This month, IMO finalized generic interim guidelines for the training of seafarers working on alternative fuel-powered ships, to be approved in June, and will continue to develop other fuel-specific interim training guidelines. It is a serious issue for us and the energy transition will certainly be taken into account during the ongoing review of the STCW Convention and Code.

Many developing countries rely heavily on maritime trade, yet they may face higher costs and technical challenges in complying with IMO’s emission regulations. How does the IMO ensure that these new regulations are implemented fairly and equitably across all member states?

The green transition must be just and fair for all. And while it is true that the decarboniation journey will have a cost, there is a higher cost if we miss the window to act, innovate and secure a more sustainable future...It is also important to note that the green transition brings a range of opportunities especially for developing countries...What collaborations does the IMO have with private sector stakeholders, including shipowners, fuel providers, and technology developers, to ensure effective and practical adoption of new regulations?

The input of industry organizations is vital to IMO’s decision-making process...This partnership between governments and industry is precisely what makes IMO effective as a global regulator.