A broad coalition of maritime industry organizations has formally called on Member States of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to
A broad coalition of maritime industry organizations has formally called on Member States of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to adopt its Net-Zero Framework in 2026, describing it as a decisive step toward eliminating greenhouse gas emissions from shipping by or around 2050.
The statement is backed by 87 signatories, including major ports handling more than 340 million tonnes of cargo annually and listed companies with a combined market value of around USD 140 billion. The signatories voiced strong support for the IMO’s efforts to deliver a clear and credible pathway to decarbonize one of the world’s most essential industries.
The IMO decision has been a harsh set-back for the entire industry. Everybody is aware that net zero is only achievable through synthetic fuels. But without the Net Zero Framework in place the business case for the necessary investments into e-fuels and e-fuel production is a lot weaker. The IMO must find the strength to vote for the NZF this year
… said Dr. Uwe Lauber, CEO Everllence.
To remind, IMO agreed to delay the planned adoption of the Net-Zero Framework for one year in a vote during the last day of Marine Environment Protection Committee, 2nd extraordinary session MEPC/ES.2 (14 to 17 October 2025).
A hard-won compromise
The coalition acknowledged the years of negotiations that led to the development of the IMO’s greenhouse gas (GHG) Strategy and Net-Zero Framework. According to the statement, the approved Framework represents a “hard-fought compromise” between governments, industry stakeholders, and civil society.
The IMO’s Net-Zero Framework is a critical step toward creating the regulatory clarity our industry needs to accelerate maritime decarbonization. Clear and predictable global rules will help unlock investment across the value chain — from fuel production and infrastructure to vessels and offtake agreements
… commented Hans Olav Raen, CEO, Yara Clean Ammonia.
Supporters argue that the Framework strikes a necessary balance: ambitious enough to drive transformation, yet pragmatic enough to ensure global participation. It has already earned overwhelming backing across the maritime industry, they noted.
One global standard for a global industry
Advocates stress that global regulation is essential for a sector that operates across borders. A unified IMO-led framework would establish one set of rules covering emissions from all international shipping, providing clarity for shipowners, fuel producers, ports, and investors worldwide.
Industry leaders say that earlier regulatory signals from the IMO have already begun reshaping the market. Production of low-carbon fuels is expanding, energy-efficient technologies are being deployed, and new vessels capable of running on alternative fuels are being ordered and delivered. Meanwhile, bunkering infrastructure for emerging fuels is under development across multiple regions.
Investment at stake
The coalition emphasized that predictability is essential for large-scale investment. Ships, fuel facilities, and port infrastructure typically involve long asset lifetimes and high capital expenditure.
Business leaders warn that any delay in adopting the Framework risks creating confusion and uncertainty, potentially undermining the billions already committed to clean shipping technologies. Further postponement, they cautioned, could stall progress and weaken investor confidence at a critical moment for the sector’s energy transition.
“Action now will create the market conditions necessary for new fuels and technologies,” the statement said, adding that the transition will support job creation, innovation, and long-term economic growth.
Rapid adoption of the IMO’s Net‑Zero Framework in 2026 would send a powerful signal to producers and investors that Europe is committed to a global, level‑playing‑field transition, unlocking the clean fuel volumes shipping urgently needs
… stressed Maarten Wetselaar, CEO, Moeve.
A call for immediate action
Supporters argue that the IMO now has a clear and predictable structure in place to guide shipping’s clean transition, while allowing the sector to continue expanding its vital role in global trade.
The coalition is urging Member States to formally adopt the Net-Zero Framework in 2026, asserting that timely action will provide the certainty needed to accelerate decarbonization and keep the industry on track to achieve net-zero emissions by or around 2050.
Without a clear and predictable demand signal anchored in global regulation, investment will slow and projects will struggle to reach final investment decision. Swift adoption of the IMO Net Zero Framework remains the best way to scale green hydrogen-based fuels globally for shipping and we urge governments to overcome last year’s unfortunate delay
… remarked Joe Williams, CEO, Green Hydrogen Organisation.
Content Original Link:
" target="_blank">
