A Historic Step Toward Global Maritime Decarbonization
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has taken a landmark step toward climate action by advancing the IMO Net-Zero Framework — the first binding global regulation to combine mandatory marine fuel standards with GHG pricing across an entire industry sector.
Approved during MEPC83, this new framework targets net-zero GHG emissions from international shipping by around 2050, as outlined in the IMO’s 2023 GHG Strategy.
🔹 Scope: Applies to ocean-going vessels over 5,000 GT — accounting for 85% of the sector’s CO₂ emissions
🔹 Key elements:
A global marine fuel standard focused on reducing GHG fuel intensity
A global pricing mechanism that penalizes excess emissions and rewards low- and zero-emission vessels
The creation of an IMO Net-Zero Fund to support innovation, equity, and transition in developing countries
📅 What’s next?
October 2025: Formal adoption
2027: Expected entry into force
At Hy5, we closely follow these pivotal enablers for the adoption of alternative fuels — especially those aligned with zero or near-zero emissions (ZNZ) as emethanol, which are expected to be rewarded under the new framework. This positions e-methanol as a leading option for the decarbonization of shipping.
