The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is enhancing global ship safety by addressing work/rest periods, fatigue, and harassment. In its 110th session, the Maritime Safety Committee focused on revising the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, improving compliance, and assigning responsibilities for incident reporting and victim support in maritime environments.
In May 2024, the International Maritime Organization approved amendments to the STCW Code, addressing violence and harassment in the maritime sector. Effective January 1, 2026, new training requirements will focus on preventing and responding to issues like sexual assault and bullying, enhancing seafarers’ competencies in these critical areas.
At the 110th session of the Maritime Safety Committee, IMO General Secretary Arsenio Dominguez highlighted the critical importance of maritime security and environmental protection. Mourning the loss of seafarers from recent tragedies, he called for enhanced compliance with IMO standards and effective emergency responses to ensure the safety of maritime operations.
The “IMO Net-Zero Framework” outlines a dual strategy for the shipping industry, focusing on a global fuel standard and emission pricing. With urgent calls for investment in technology and alternative fuels, it mandates that international ships evolve their practices over time, emphasizing the need for upskilling the maritime workforce by 2030.
Ahead of World Oceans Day on June 8, Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, called for stronger global commitments to protect the ocean. He emphasized the shared responsibility of governments, industries, and civil society, stating, “We all have a responsibility to safeguard our precious marine environment.”
In October, the International Maritime Organization will implement a framework to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from ships over 5,000 GT, targeting net-zero by 2050. Ethanol, produced from renewable sources, emerges as a potential alternative fuel. However, challenges like energy density, corrosiveness, and safety concerns must be addressed for effective adoption.
The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has proposed new measures to transition to zero-emission fuels, yet the Global Maritime Forum warns these may lack sufficient incentives for e-fuels like green ammonia and e-methanol. Early competitiveness is vital to prevent bottlenecks in decarbonisation, with targeted incentives deemed essential for success.
Karin Orsel, a pioneering Dutch shipowner, received the International Maritime Organization’s Gender Equality Award on May 16. Emphasizing mentorship and support for women in maritime, she has led MF Shipping Group to significant growth. Orsel advocates for diversity and sees decarbonization as a key opportunity for women’s advancement in the industry.
As Women in Maritime Day approaches on May 18, the International Maritime Organization’s Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez emphasizes the urgent need for gender equality in the maritime industry. With women comprising only 2% of seafarers, this year’s theme, “Ocean of Opportunities for Women,” highlights the importance of education, mentorship, and cultural change.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) plans to implement its Net-Zero Framework in 2027, pending 2025 adoption. This framework introduces a two-tier compliance system and differential pricing for “remedial units,” requiring collaboration between shipowners and charterers. It aims to reshape decision-making in the maritime industry amid existing regulatory concerns.
The IMO Net-zero Framework, established at MEPC 83, is a revolutionary initiative for the shipping industry. It includes emissions limits, GHG pricing, a new fuel standard, and a global pricing mechanism. Despite challenges, industry leaders recognize its importance for decarbonization efforts. Stakeholders have expressed mixed views on the framework.
In 2025, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) faces geopolitical tensions, security challenges, digitization, and decarbonization. Their goal is safe, efficient, sustainable shipping through international regulations and technical support. Milestones include joining conventions on ship recycling, fishing vessel safety, and reducing emissions. Mandatory regulations and initiatives support member states to meet ambitious decarbonization targets.
The IMO has released preliminary guidelines for the safety of ships using ammonia as fuel, a crucial step towards regulatory support for alternative fuels. BIMCO has actively contributed to ensuring safe adoption. The guidelines cover ship design, operation, toxicity reduction, aligning with existing codes and focusing on safety and reliability.
INTERCARGO is pushing for practical measures in the IMO’s climate negotiations, emphasizing the importance of simplicity and predictability. They advocate for a clear carbon price and realistic timelines for implementation. With a focus on balancing environmental goals with operational efficiency, INTERCARGO stresses the need for solutions that benefit both the environment and the shipping industry.
The IMO’s upcoming meeting in London will be crucial in deciding on a GHG pricing mechanism for the shipping industry. The 6PAC+ alliance is advocating for a universal GHG levy to drive decarbonization efforts and ensure a just transition. Support for the levy is growing, but political divisions remain on key issues.
