Reflections on the Net Zero Framework and MEPC-ES adjournment in October. IWSA Secretary General has been travelling throughout Europe and Asia following that meeting:

“We are a month or so on from the International Maritime Organization decision to adjourn the adoption process for the Net Zero Framework, though it feels a lot longer. Since then I have been on the road most of the time and engaged in hundreds of conversations with stakeholders in the industry, from our IWSA members to flag state representatives and ship owners on both sides of the aisle, energy and technology specialists through to financiers and seafarers.

This is what I have learned so far:

📉⛽️⛵️ Flexible – I have heard an industry that understands that the net zero strategy we agreed upon in 2023 stands, that one lever is suspended but that we still need to deliver on the 20-30% reduction in GHG by 2030. I have been told by almost everyone that there is renewed focus on other levers and especially the deployment of low hanging fruit – energy efficiency, voyage optimisation, digitalisation, crew and wind propulsion – all investments that pay for themselves and are ready to deploy today.

👷‍♀️👷‍♂️🚧 Impressive – work goes on!!!. I was really impressed that many of those delegates present at IMO during the fraught discussions, disappointment and frustration in MEPC-ES, were back in the room the following Monday, determined to work on the details, guidelines and other issues that will be needed to aid the positive resumption of the meeting in 11 months time. This work continues! Whatever the outcome, that signals that multilateralism maybe bruised and battered (and taking another hit at COP30) but it is resilient.

🌏🗺🌐 Sustainability – a much over used and less well understood term than you may think. However, there seems to be a growing appreciation of what this term actually means when it comes to maritime.

A low impact, profitable and clean industry that has just and equitable considerations at the very heart is the goal. I have been cheered to see three primary wind and wind assist ship models donated to IMO this year as a signal to that potential. Every conversation I have had this month recognised that sustainability goes beyond the narrow GHG criteria – other pollutants and emissions are vital issues, affordability of energy sources and equitable supply chains are fundamental, and proactive work on an energy-centric approach is key.

Am I being naive or are these cause for optimism 🤔 – I like to think that they are and we will continue to be working with those who agree.”