International Maritime Organization's Framework on GHG Emissions

The UN's International Maritime Organization (IMO) has established the first legally binding international framework to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping.

Key Details

• Finalized in London after a week of negotiations.
• Aims for an equitable transition to net-zero emissions by or around 2050.
• Part of the 2023 Revised IMO Strategy.
• Included technical and economic measures.

Voting Outcome

• Voting was requested by Saudi Arabia, which is atypical for the IMO.
• Out of 104 member states: 
  • 63 voted in favor.
  • 16 voted against.
  • 25 abstained.
• Countries supporting the decision included India, Brazil, Japan, the UK, China, Spain, Norway, Mexico, and France.
• Countries opposing included Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Venezuela, and Russia.
• Pacific island states and others abstained, emphasizing the need for a flat levy.

Significance and Reactions

• Brazil emphasized the importance of the decision despite geopolitical tensions.
• The framework includes the first global carbon pricing scheme for shipping polluters.
• It will be formally approved in October and implemented from 2028.
• International shipping contributes to 3% of global emissions.
• WWF praised the framework as a "groundbreaking moment," but experts voiced concerns about meeting the global warming limit of 1.5°C.

Projections and Challenges

• Maritime consultancy UMAS projects only an 8% absolute emission reduction by 2030, against IMO's target of 20-30%.
• WWF's Mark Lutes stressed the need for faster emission reductions and sustainable fuel investments.
• The carbon intensity regulation will initially affect fossil LNG, increasing in severity through the 2030s.
• The framework might generate $30-40 billion by 2030 for clean energy in shipping.
• Pacific Island states regard the framework as insufficient for a just transition.

Pacific Island States' Concerns

• Tuvalu, representing Pacific Islands, stressed the need for: 
  • Stronger energy incentives.
  • Transparency in the process.
  • Inclusion of their voices.
  • Ensuring a just transition.