25 NOV 2025
A group of non-governmental organisations call for governments to step up their efforts to decarbonise the maritime sector after the delay of the IMO Net Zero Framework Following last month’s one year delay to the Net Zero Framework (NZF) NGO’s are demanding that governments take decisive action to accelerate the industry’s decarbonisation plans.
A US-led coalition scuppered the IMO’s attempts to agree a comprehensive road map that would see shipping substantially reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to a fraction of those recorded in 2008.
The IMO set out a clear pathway to 2050 with interim targets for 2030 and 2040 with many nation states already committed to delivering the reductions in emissions and many vessel operators investing in the green technology that will achieve the industry’s goals.
In a move that will find support from many in the maritime sector, five NGO’s, Environmental Defense Fund, Pacific Environment, Seas At Risk, Solutions for Our Climate, and Transport & Environment, have set out a six-point action plan that they are calling on governments to commit to in a bid to make sure that the maritime meets its climate obligations.
The plan calls for governments to:
- Develop and implement a national action plan on international shipping emissions
- Set clear domestic targets and mandates for low- and zero-emission marine fuels and vessels
- Deploy financial and regulatory incentives to accelerate ship efficiency and fuel transition
- Enhance port infrastructure and support for alternative fuels, as well as technologies such as wind propulsion and electrification
- Ensure a just and globally equitable transition, especially for developing and small-island nations
- Support urgent action on short-lived climate forcers (methane and black carbon) emitted by international shipping
Postponement of the NZF was a disappointment for many within and outside the industry but John Yum, head of shipping team at Solutions for Our Climate, argues that individual states can still take action to reduce emissions by expanding green corridors or investing in zero or near zero fuels.
He said: “Taking proactive steps now will demonstrate governments’ commitment to achieving net-zero shipping by 2050 and help ensure that, when the IMO reconvenes, it can move forward with stronger ambition rather than face another setback.”
Meanwhile, Pacific Environment believe that overshooting the Paris target of limiting Earth’s warming to 1.5degs has already been missed and blames “bad actors” for “bullying” countries into inaction.
Pacific Environment’s climate policy director, Davina Hurt, said, “Now is the time to act”.
She added: “We call on all member states and zero-emission leaders like California to step up and act on climate change by truly decarbonizing maritime shipping. There is only one planet. We must stand together for the health of our ocean and for future generations.”