Broken Promises: Poor Nations Call Out Rich Over Shipping Emissions
At the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) talks in London (April 7–11, 2025), developing nations have accused wealthier countries of backing down on earlier climate commitments. The negotiations aim to finalise a long-term agreement to decarbonise global shipping by 2050. Central to the proposal is a levy on ships based on their greenhouse gas emissions, with funds directed to support poorer countries in climate action. However, major economies like China, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia oppose the levy, and others, including the EU, may seek to weaken it. As IMO decarbonisation talks begin, developing countries accuse wealthier nations of retreating on climate commitments. Disagreements over emissions levy pose a risk to climate goals.
As discussions begin under the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in London from April 7 to 11, developing nations have expressed strong concerns over what they see as a lack of commitment from wealthier countries toward tackling climate change through maritime sector reforms.
The negotiations, set to finalise a long-term agreement to decarbonise international shipping by 2050, face growing criticism. Developing countries argue that richer nations are backtracking on earlier climate promises. The proposed deal includes a levy on ships based on their greenhouse gas emissions, with the revenue intended to support climate adaptation and mitigation in low-income countries. However, resistance from some major economies is casting doubt on the strength of the agreement.
Disagreements Over Emission Levies
The shipping decarbonisation proposal centres on implementing a mandatory emissions-based charge across global maritime operations. Funds collected would be redistributed to less-developed nations to help them build resilience against climate change and invest in cleaner energy systems.
While this mechanism has gained some support, it is facing significant opposition. Major economies including China, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia have expressed disapproval of the emissions levy, arguing it could disrupt trade and economic development. Other countries, such as those in the European Union, are reportedly seeking to weaken the terms of the levy to reduce its economic burden.
Shipping's Role in Global Emissions
According to a 2023 report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), international shipping is responsible for over 2% of global energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. This figure underscores the urgency of regulatory action. The IEA report stresses the need for legally binding measures to shift the maritime sector onto a trajectory consistent with the Net Zero Emissions (NZE) by 2050 pathway. To meet that goal, a reduction of nearly 15% in shipping emissions from 2022 levels must be achieved by 2030.
Currently, the shipping industry’s dependence on fossil fuels continues to be a major challenge. Fuel combustion accounts for over 80% of total lifecycle emissions in maritime operations, according to a 2023 report from the World Economic Forum. The report identifies bulk carriers, oil tankers, and container ships as the primary contributors, generating approximately 65% of overall shipping emissions.
IMO Targets Under Scrutiny
The IMO has previously set out emissions reduction goals aiming for a 20% cut by 2030 and at least 70% by 2040, using 2008 levels as a baseline. However, progress has been limited, and current emission levels continue to exceed 2008 figures, placing the industry off-track from its stated ambitions.
As negotiations continue in London, many developing nations are concerned that the momentum needed to deliver a robust and equitable agreement is being lost. They argue that without effective financial mechanisms and binding commitments, the shipping sector will continue to fall short of contributing meaningfully to global climate targets.
Conclusion
The ongoing IMO talks highlight a growing divide between high-income and low-income countries over climate responsibility and financial support mechanisms. As global shipping remains a major emitter and a vital component of international trade, establishing a clear and enforceable decarbonisation pathway is crucial. The outcome of these negotiations could significantly influence whether the sector aligns with the broader global objective of limiting warming and achieving net-zero emissions by mid-century.
Source: The Guardian (2025), Reporting on IMO Negotiations
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