Get ready for a bold journey towards a greener future! The shipping industry is at a critical juncture, and we're about to dive into the heart of its energy transition. But here's where it gets controversial: can we really achieve net-zero emissions by 2050? That's the ambitious goal set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in its 2023 GHG Strategy. And the answer, my friends, is a resounding yes, with a twist!
The IMO has already implemented a range of actions at global, regional, and national levels to make this vision a reality. One key measure is the short-term GHG reduction strategy, which mandates energy efficiency improvements for ships. The results? A significant reduction in fuel consumption and carbon intensity, bringing us closer to the 40% target for 2030. But we're not stopping there!
Further energy efficiency enhancements can drive down fuel consumption across all ship segments. And the best part? Rapid technological advancements in propeller design, air lubrication, wind propulsion, and hull coatings are not only boosting innovation but also reducing costs and speeding up the payback period.
Ports are also stepping up their game, forming partnerships along green maritime corridors. Currently, over 60 of these corridors are in various stages of development, providing valuable first-mover experiences in alternative fuels, safe bunkering, and shore power. This cooperation is crucial for creating demand for zero and near-zero emission fuels and technologies, especially in industrial clusters within port areas.
The IMO's support for countries to develop National Action Plans further strengthens cooperation between the shipping, ports, and energy sectors, as well as the financial sector. This collaboration is essential for enhancing access to finance for shipbuilding and retrofits, ensuring that the energy transition is not only environmentally beneficial but also economically viable.
Shipping plays a pivotal role in the global energy transition by enabling the transport of low-emission fuels from their production sites to high-demand centers. And here's the part most people miss: ships can also utilize these low-emission fuels for their own propulsion, making them an integral part of the solution.
The IMO is currently working on a new set of regulatory measures to guide the shipping industry's energy transition towards net-zero. These measures will facilitate global trade, create new opportunities for alternative fuel-producing countries, support the development of related maritime infrastructure, and ensure reliable and affordable shipping for all.
But how can we accelerate this transition and ensure no one is left behind? That's the focus of our upcoming event, where we'll delve into the current actions and recommendations for the IMO and other stakeholders. We'll explore appropriate regulatory measures, broader enabling frameworks, and support mechanisms, especially for developing countries, to ensure a fair and inclusive transition.
Join us for a thought-provoking dialogue with government representatives, international organizations, industry leaders, and civil society. Together, we can chart the course for a sustainable future in global shipping.
Agenda:
16:45 - 16:55: Opening by Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General, IMO
16:55 - 17:05: Keynote by H.R.H. Prince Jaime de Bourbon de Parme, Climate Envoy, Netherlands
17:05 - 18:00: Panel Discussion on Ongoing Action and Needed Acceleration
Moderator: Ms. Katharine Palmer, Maritime Lead, Climate Champions Team
Panelists:
- Mr. Rodrigo Bermelho, Global Director of Shipping and Distribution, Vale S.A.
- Alain Beauvillard, Director of Strategy, Policy, and Innovation, Green Climate Fund
- Ms. Linden Coppell, Vice President Sustainability & ESG, MSC Cruises
- Dr. Andrew Forrest, non-executive chairman, Fortescue
- Mr. Hans Olav Ibrekk, Special Envoy, Climate and Security, Norway
- Ms. Tina Stege, Climate Envoy, Marshall Islands
18:00 - 18:10: Q&A Session
18:10 - 18:15: Closing Remarks by Mr. Igor Paunovic, Senior Economist, UNCTAD
Date: 10 November 2025
Language: English
Will the shipping industry rise to the challenge and lead the way towards a sustainable future? Join the conversation and share your thoughts! We want to hear your unique perspectives and ideas on how to make this transition a success.
