Historic Agreement Reached on Global Shipping

The European Commission has welcomed what it calls a “landmark” agreement aimed at reducing maritime pollution.

This deal, secured in cooperation with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), is being described as a major step toward achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the global shipping industry by 2050.

The EU heralded the agreement as a “historic deal in the fight against climate change,” stating it marks a significant milestone in mitigating the environmental impact of global maritime transport.

Although the agreement does not yet guarantee the shipping sector’s full alignment with the Paris Agreement objectives, EU officials say it provides a strong basis for initiating the needed energy transition within the maritime industry.

The EU and its Member States reportedly played a pivotal role in reaching the agreement and will continue to be actively involved ahead of its planned adoption in October 2025 and subsequent implementation in 2027.

As part of IMO’s 2023 strategy, the agreement introduces a new measure that sets a global benchmark for the gradual reduction of GHG intensity in marine fuels.

For the first time, it also incorporates a global pricing mechanism for emissions. This, coupled with financial incentives, is intended to encourage early investment in low-emission fuels and cutting-edge clean technologies across the shipping industry.

Apostolos Tzitzikostas, Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, commented:

“This landmark deal highlights the strong commitment of the international maritime community to reducing the sector’s carbon footprint while ensuring a just transition and a level playing field.”

He further stated:

“In line with the EU’s net-zero ambitions, this agreement paves the way for long-term investments across the entire maritime fuel value chain, strengthening the industry’s sustainability and competitiveness for years to come.

The Commission will remain actively engaged to ensure its adoption and effective implementation.”

Further remarks blank”>came from Wopke Hoekstra, Commissioner for Climate, Net Zero and Clean Growth, who emphasized:

“This agreement is a significant milestone, not just for decarbonising shipping, but for global climate action overall.

The agreement represents a key step toward achieving net-zero emissions in the maritime sector. This global progress is particularly remarkable and uplifting given today’s geopolitical challenges.”

He added:

“It shows that multilateralism remains the way forward. The Commission will continue to push for more ambitious measures within the IMO framework moving ahead.”