IMO’s 2nd Extraordinary Session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC ES.2) has officially commenced, beginning with opening remarks from the Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez.
In his address, the Secretary-General highlighted that, following established procedures, extensive discussions have taken place over multiple sessions to translate the strategic objectives of the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy into binding regulations.
This inclusive and thorough process culminated in the approval of the IMO Net-Zero Framework at the previous session, with priorities and concerns carefully considered in its final design. While some view the framework as not ambitious enough in terms of climate goals, others believe the greenhouse gas intensity (GFI) reduction requirements may be too demanding for the shipping industry.
The Secretary-General noted differing opinions on the availability of alternative fuels to meet compliance, with some expecting that strong global regulations will send a clear market signal to fuel and energy producers. Additionally, perspectives vary regarding the level of support needed for developing States compared to early adopters.
"All these views continue to be valuable. And also during this week all these different positions will be respected. The IMO Net-Zero Framework is not perfect. However, it provides a balanced basis for our further work on a number of elements ahead of its entry into force in 2027." Arsenio Dominguez highlighted.
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Furthermore, the energy and digital transitions in shipping are already underway. However, the absence of unified global regulations risks higher long-term costs and the fragmentation of regional and national climate measures, resulting in inefficiencies and a patchwork of emissions pricing schemes without coordinated oversight by IMO and its Member States.
Prolonged uncertainty may delay investments and undermine confidence in IMO. The framework consists of goal-based provisions that do not exclude any specific fuel or technology as compliance options.
Current proposals on reward mechanisms, fuel certification, well-to-wake emissions and funding aim to address remaining concerns and provide further clarity.
"I am confident that the various proposals that have already been submitted regarding the reward, fuel certification, well-to-wake emissions, or the fund will address remaining concerns and provide additional certainty." The Secretary commented.
