The 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change – agreed by the majority of United Nations members – sets challenging and far-reaching goals that require sizeable reductions in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and greenhouse gasses (GHG).

The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has made the urgent need to address climate change a prominent feature of its strategic plan and sets out its own ambitious goals for the shipping industry between now and 2040 (all compared to 2008 levels).

The impact on shipping will be felt by vessel owners, operators, charterers and national authorities. 

The below shows indicative checkpoints for 2030 & 2040:

  • By 2030: reduce Total annual GHG emissions from international shipping by at least 20% striving for 30% (compared to 2008 levels).

  • By 2030: reduce CO2 emissions per transport work, as an average across international shipping, by at least 40% (compared to 2008).

  • By 2040: reduce Total annual GHG emissions from international shipping by at least 70% striving for 80% (compared to 2008 levels).

IMO continues to work on refining guidance and on the implementation of the regulations, through the MEPC.

Navigating Decarbonisation FAQs

Decarbonisation is a way of reducing carbon in shipping. The IMO has set targets for shipping to reduce Greenhouse gases by 2050 in a phased approach. Decarbonising the shipping industry may be achieved through alternative fuels, renewable energy sources, innovative technologies, as well as technical and operational strategies to reduce fuel consumption for new and existing ships. Learn more about the legislation and compliance options available to shipowners, as well as the contractual and charter party issues by contacting one of our specialists today. 

Further decarbonisation areas

Decarbonisation expertise that helps our Members comply today while preparing for tomorrow.

Do you have more questions on Decarbonisation?

Your Decarbonisation Team

Mark Smith

Director - Decarbonisation

Helen Barden

Head of External Affairs

Eva Kelesidou

Claims Director

Yves Vandenborn

Head of Loss Prevention Asia Pacific

Sarah McCann

Senior Solicitor – External Affairs

Craig Blackwood

FD&D Claims Director - Nordics & Northern Europe

Dimitra Capas

Senior FD&D Advisor

Lisa Jenkins

Senior Claims Executive- Nordics & Northern Europe

Matt Bevan

Claims Director - Nordics & Northern Europe

Scott Pilkington

FD&D Claims Director - Asia Pac/Mid. East, India & Africa

Stewart Munro

FD&D Claims Director - Asia Pacific / Nordics & Northern Europe

Sian Meadows

Head of Underwriting & Business Development Transformation

Joanna Meadows

FD&D Claims Director - Americas & UK