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The United Nations hails the shipping sector's trajectory towards net-zero emissions as a historic turning point. Information published on May 16th by the UN News Service notes that shipping, long considered outside the scope of global climate action efforts, is now demonstrating a unique example of international cooperation, affirming that even the largest transport sector can undertake climate commitments. In April 2025, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the body regulating global shipping matters, approved a landmark plan to achieve net-zero emissions by mid-century.

The significance of this decision is underscored by data cited in the report indicating that 90 percent of global trade is conducted via maritime transport. Concurrently, emissions from shipping account for three percent of global greenhouse gas volumes. The plan, titled the IMO Framework for Achieving Net-Zero Emissions, is the result of years of negotiations among member states – from small island nations to the largest maritime powers.

The IMO has been working on emissions reduction for over a decade: energy efficiency measures were introduced in 2011, followed by the first strategy in 2018. Specific targets were set in 2023 – to reduce emissions by 20 percent by 2030 and by 70 percent by 2040, as well as to progressively introduce fuels with zero or near-zero emissions. The 2025 Framework will make the implementation of these targets mandatory. The industry now anticipates new regulations: a global fuel standard and an emissions pricing mechanism. Those exceeding the limits will either purchase "offsetting units" or invest in a special IMO fund. Shipowners with low emission levels will be able to sell their surpluses. Funds generated will support low-income countries, facilitate technology transfer, and expand access to environmentally friendly fuels. Innovation will play a crucial role: hydrogen and ammonia-based fuels, wind and solar energy, as well as onboard technologies enabling the capture of CO₂ emissions before they are released into the atmosphere. Oversight will be ensured by member states and the IMO itself through certification, audits, and reporting. Final agreement on the plan is expected at the IMO session in October of this year.

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