Countries achieve historic agreement to cut shipping emissions

Countries have reached a landmark agreement to cut greenhouse gas emissions from global shipping, following extensive negotiations at the UN International Maritime Organization (IMO) Marine Environment Protection Committee, UN website reported. The deal sets mandatory fuel standards and introduces a carbon pricing mechanism, targeting net-zero emissions by 2050. It applies to large vessels over 5,000 gross tonnage, which account for 85% of the sector’s carbon dioxide emissions.

Despite initial opposition from around a dozen countries, including the U.S., the framework was ultimately approved.

The new system includes a global fuel standard to reduce greenhouse gas intensity and requires high-emitting ships to pay for excess pollution. Financial incentives will be provided for vessels with zero or near-zero emissions. The IMO Net-Zero Fund will support innovation in developing countries. The regulations are set for formal adoption in October 2025 and will come into effect in 2027.