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IMO updates COP 26 on work to cut greenhouse gas emissions

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The International Maritime Organization reported on its latest progress in addressing greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping during the ongoing United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 26) in Glasgow.

In a statement to the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice, the IMO Secretariat highlighted recent developments including the adoption in June of mandatory short-term measures to reduce the carbon intensity of international shipping at least 40% by 2030. This important achievement, to be implemented from 2023, will drive further energy efficiency improvements in the global fleet, which is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Concrete proposals for mid- and long-term measures

In accordance with the work plan approved in June by member states, IMO has started to consider concrete proposals for mid- and long-term GHG reduction measures, including potential market-based measures.

IMO adopted the first global mandatory energy efficiency requirements for an entire sector in 2011. Since then, member states have continuously intensified their efforts to address GHG emissions from the maritime sector through the development of a consistent regulatory framework. In 2018, the IMO adopted its initial strategy to reduce GHG emissions from ships. This strategy, 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.

Initiatives for a just transition to zero carbon shipping

The IMO Secretariat also highlighted a range of range of projects, partnerships and initiatives the IMO is working on to enable a just and smooth transition towards zero carbon shipping, emphasizing the ongoing work to ensure no one is left behind in shipping’s decarbonization journey.

The full 16-page COP 26 submission is here.

IMO will also participate in a number of side events during COP 26 to promote its work.