The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) has submitted new analysis to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) comparing all four proposed Net-Zero Framework (NZF) options for shipping emissions, according to Ship & Bunker. The submissions were made ahead of the 22nd Intersessional Working Group on GHG Emissions from Ships (ISWG-GHG 22), scheduled for September 1-4, as member states continue working toward a unified framework for decarbonising international shipping.
Levy-Based Option Leads on Emissions Checkpoints
According to Ship & Bunker, the IMarEST analysis evaluated each of the four proposed MARPOL amendment options against the targets set out in the IMO’s 2023 GHG Strategy. The study found that a levy-based framework is most likely to achieve the emissions reduction checkpoints set for 2030 and 2040.
This approach would impose fixed financial penalties on vessels that fail to meet emissions standards, while directing subsidies toward operators adopting zero or near-zero emission fuels and technologies, Ship & Bunker reports.
Current NZF Could Offer Lowest Abatement Cost
Despite the levy-based option’s advantage on meeting timeline targets, the analysis also found that keeping the NZF in its current form could deliver the lowest average carbon abatement cost among the pricing-based options. However, Ship & Bunker notes this outcome depends on avoiding significant increases in biofuel prices before 2038.
The modelling behind the analysis was conducted by University College London’s Energy Institute Shipping and Oceans Research Group together with the Rocky Mountain Institute, according to the report.
Dr Tristan Smith, professor of energy and transport at UCL’s Energy Institute and head of the IMarEST IMO GHG delegation, said the work represents the first study to model the specifics of all four proposals side-by-side, building on the assumptions and methods used in the IMO’s own Comprehensive Impact Assessment of mid-term measures. He added that the analysis is intended to help guide IMO member states toward a workable solution for the Net-Zero Framework as negotiations intensify ahead of MEPC 85 later this year, Ship & Bunker reports.
The IMarEST has also launched an industry consultation on the effectiveness of current IMO GHG measures, open to individuals and organisations with a stake in maritime decarbonisation until September 16. Alasdair Wishart, director of technical and policy at IMarEST, said gathering input from engineers, scientists and technologists helps ensure the Institute’s contributions to the IMO reflect the sector’s expertise and experience, according to the report.
Does This Matter to You?
The direction the IMO takes on the Net-Zero Framework will shape how emissions compliance costs are structured across international shipping, including how levies, subsidies, and fuel pricing mechanisms interact. Depending on which option member states adopt, this could influence future bunker fuel pricing, compliance planning, and the economics of switching to zero or near-zero emission fuels.
The open industry consultation running until September 16 also offers stakeholders with a role in maritime decarbonisation an opportunity to provide input before key decisions are made at MEPC 85. Beyond this, the source material does not specify further direct operational or commercial impacts at this stage.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
