To provide an updated global emissions inventory for 2016–2023 using advanced methodologies to support the IMO’s strategy of achieving net-zero GHG emissions in international shipping by 2050, with interim targets for 2030 and 2040, and to evaluate emission trends including the growing impact of methane from LNG-fueled ships and black carbon to inform future decarbonization policies and strategies.
Sector: Policy
What is the IMO’s Mid-term measures and how it works
To clearly explain the structure and mechanisms of the IMO’s mid-term measures and to help shipping companies understand the regulatory framework—particularly the GHG Fuel Intensity (GFI) regulations and the operation of the IMO Net-Zero Fund—and to outline support services available for a smooth transition toward decarbonization, including ClassNK’s verification and digital monitoring tools.
An overview of the discussions from IMO’s 83rd Marine Environment Protection Committee
To provide an overview and critical analysis of the outcomes of MEPC 83, with a focus on the newly agreed mid-term measures, and to assess the implications of the agreement in terms of expected GHG emission reductions, energy transition, the deployment of zero- and near-zero (ZNZ) GHG fuels, and the ability of the policy to contribute to a just and equitable transition (JET)
Assessing the impact of the IMO’s draft Net-Zero Framework
To evaluate the effectiveness of the IMO’s draft Net-Zero Framework in achieving the targets set out in the IMO 2023 GHG Strategy, and to analyze whether the economic and technical instruments proposed can deliver GHG emission reductions in line with a 1.5°C trajectory.
To assess whether the projected revenues from the framework are sufficient to support the uptake of zero- and near-zero (ZNZ) emission fuels and enable a just and equitable transition.
Compilation of Economic Reports Assessing the Impacts of Mid-Term Measures on Caribbean States
To compile and assess economic studies that explore the costs, investment needs, and policy measures required for the decarbonization of the maritime sector in the Caribbean region, with a particular focus on small island developing states (SIDS), in order to support a just and effective transition aligned with global climate goals.
SAFE INTRODUCTION OF ALTERNATIVE FUELS (Focus on ammonia and hydrogen as ship fuels)
To support the safe and effective introduction of ammonia and hydrogen as alternative marine fuels by outlining approval processes, safety challenges, and regulatory gaps, and by guiding shipowners, designers, and operators in navigating the current immature regulatory landscape. The report emphasizes the importance of early stakeholder collaboration, risk-based approval, seafarer training, and the development of robust safety systems to enable the maritime industry’s transition toward decarbonization by 2050.
Life cycle assessment of e-/bio- methanol and e-/grey-/blue-ammonia for maritime transport
to provide an independent and comparative assessment of key alternative fuels for the maritime sector, and to evaluate their energy efficiency, greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction potential, production scalability, maturity, and economic competitiveness, in both the short and long term
Shipping: Fuelling deforestation – Why the IMO’s Global Fuel Standard risks incentivising the worst biofuels
To examine the risks posed by the IMO’s Global Fuel Standard (GFS) in promoting unsustainable biofuels, this report analyzes the potential unintended consequences of incentivizing high-emission biofuels in the absence of clear sustainability criteria. It explores the projected rise in biofuel demand within the international shipping sector under GFS, assesses the greenhouse gas impacts of increased biodiesel use, and highlights the potential for adverse climate and environmental outcomes. The report aims to provide policy recommendations that ensure the GFS supports genuinely sustainable decarbonization pathways and avoids triggering deforestation and other land-use emissions.
Synthetic fuels for shipping
To explores the potential of synthetic fuels, specifically e-methanol, e-methane, and e-diesel, as viable alternatives for shipping decarbonization.
To evaluates their production technologies, sustainability, availability, economic feasibility, and regulatory challenges.
Linking the employment of alternative marine fuels to a carbon price for shipping
To study the feasibility of hydrogen and ammonia as marine fuels, this research analyses their costs and benefits. While both fuels offer long-term decarbonization potential, adoption faces challenges due to high capital investments and operational costs. Green hydrogen is the most expensive, followed by green ammonia, blue hydrogen, and blue ammonia, though green alternatives have minimal emissions costs. This highlights the need for Market-Based Measures (MBMs) to support their implementation.