IMO has reported
on its latest progress and achievements in addressing GHG emissions from
international shipping at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP
26), in Glasgow, United Kingdom (31-12 November).
In a statement to
the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 52-55), the
IMO Secretariat highlighted recent developments, including the adoption in June
this year, following a comprehensive assessment of its possible impacts on
States, of mandatory short-term measures to reduce the carbon intensity of
international shipping by at least 40% by 2030. This important achievement,
that will be implemented from 2023, will drive further energy efficiency
improvements in the global fleet, which is also expected to reduce GHG
emissions from shipping.
IMO has started to consider concrete proposals for mid- and long-term
GHG reduction measures
In accordance with
a Work plan approved in June 2021 by its Member States, IMO has started to
consider concrete proposals for mid- and long-term GHG reduction measures,
including potential market-based measures, which will further reduce GHG
emissions from shipping, and how to further progress work on impact
assessments.
IMO adopted the
first global mandatory energy efficiency requirements for an entire sector in
2011. Since then, IMO Member States have continuously intensified their efforts
to address GHG emissions from the maritime sector through the development of a
consistent regulatory framework which applies to ships engaged in international
trade. In 2018, the IMO adopted its Initial Strategy on reduction of GHG
emissions from ships to enhance IMO's contribution to global efforts. The
Initial Strategy, which is due to be revised by 2023, sets out a vision and
ambitions for the maritime sector in line with the goals of the Paris
Agreement.
Projects towards just and smooth transition towards zero carbon
shipping, highlighted
The IMO
Secretariat also highlighted a range of projects, partnerships and initiatives
the IMO is working on, to enable a just and smooth transition towards zero
carbon shipping, emphasising the ongoing work to ensure no one is left behind
in shipping’s decarbonization journey.
Side events
IMO will
participate in a number of side events (see schedule here) during COP 26 to
promote its work. The Department of Projects and Partnerships will showcase its
engagements with stakeholders from the maritime, port, financial and energy
sectors to support developing countries, particularly SIDS and LDCs.
An IMO-hosted event on
“IMO’s commitment to decarbonize shipping through concerted international
action” will be held on 9 November from 5.00 p.m. at the Riverside Campus, City
of Glasgow College. |