MEPC 84 opens with call for convergence on Net-Zero Framework

April 28 ------ The Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 84) has convened for its 84th session at IMO Headquarters in London from 27 April to 1 May 2026.

Following a turbulent second extraordinary session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC/ES.2) in October 2025, which exposed divisions within the maritime community over the adoption of the IMO Net-Zero Framework, the IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) now faces a busy week ahead. Against this backdrop, IMO’s Intersessional Working Group on greenhouse gas emissions (ISWG-GHG 21) which was held 20–24 April, has also reportedly made steady progress.

Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and energy efficiency

According to Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General, IMO, turning to the meeting this week, a key task is to make meaningful progress towards convergence on the IMO Net-Zero Framework for international shipping. The time since last year’s extraordinary session has been used constructively. Submissions to this session, as well as discussions during last week’s ISWG-GHG 21, reflect a commitment to address concerns previously raised and to advance this work.

A clearer understanding of respective positions now exists within the Committee, supporting progress towards consensus on mid-term greenhouse gas reduction measures. Progress on supporting guidelines for the technical element of the framework is noted, particularly the greenhouse gas fuel intensity (GFI) regulatory component. “My request to you is that we engage in constructive and pragmatic exchanges. Listen to one another, here is no need to argue. We are adult enough to agree to disagree. There is no reason to repeat what happened last October. There is no need for it. Let us move forward where we agree and continue to elaborate where further work and understanding is required.” said Arsenio Dominguez.

Although work remains ongoing, the GFI Calculation Guidelines, alongside fuel certification and life-cycle assessment guidelines, provide a foundation for globally harmonized reporting and practical implementation.

On the economic element, continued efforts to develop a shared understanding of a just and equitable transition within the IMO context are welcomed. As explained, IMO regulations are already delivering measurable outcomes. According to Fuel Consumption Reporting data submitted to this session, the carbon intensity of international shipping has decreased by more than 38% compared to 2008. This demonstrates that improvements in efficiency, cost reduction, and fuel consumption are already achievable.

This week, consideration will also be given to the review of short-term measures, including the Carbon Intensity Indicator regulations, as well as emerging technologies such as onboard carbon capture, wind propulsion, and the monitoring of methane and nitrous oxide emissions, with a view to strengthening global regulatory clarity on fuels and technologies.

Ballast water management and biofouling

On ballast water management, consideration is given to approval of amendments to the BWM Convention, adoption of revised G4 Guidelines, advancement of work on the BWMS Code and related guidelines, and next steps in the experience-building phase. Confirmation is also invited that the legally binding framework on ships’ biofouling will take the form of a standalone instrument, as recommended by the PPR Sub-Committee.

Marine plastic litter

On marine plastic litter, consideration is given to adoption of the draft 2026 Strategy and Action Plan to Address Marine Plastic Litter from Ships. The development of a mandatory code on the maritime transport of plastic pellets in freight containers is also under review, along with a draft MEPC circular promoting implementation of fishing gear marking systems.

The MEPC 84 is chaired by Dr. Harry Conway of Liberia, ably supported by the Vice-Chair, Hanqiang Tan of Singapore.

Source: safety4sea.com