Global Carbon Pricing Framework Approved for the Maritime Industry
The International Maritime Organization (IMO), the UN agency responsible for regulating international shipping, approved a new global framework for carbon pricing and greenhouse gas fuel standards on April 12, 2025, during its 83rd Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 83) session. The framework, known as the IMO Net-Zero Framework, marks a pivotal moment for the maritime industry—and one that Climeon views as a significant milestone in the global transition toward climate-aligned shipping.
As the first global emissions pricing mechanism of its kind, this decision sets a precedent for how international regulation can accelerate the shift toward more energy-efficient and lower-emission operations across the global fleet.
IMO Approves First Global Carbon Pricing Mechanism
The newly adopted measures will introduce emissions-based fees for vessels exceeding defined CO₂ thresholds, along with progressive requirements to reduce the greenhouse gas intensity of marine fuels. These initiatives are part of the IMO’s 2023 GHG strategy, which outlines a pathway to achieving net-zero emissions from international shipping by around 2050.
“By putting a price on emissions, this decision reinforces the need for sustainable, energy-efficient operations in the maritime sector,” said Lena Sundquist, CEO. “With emissions tied to operating costs, energy efficiency becomes a strategic priority for shipowners, shipyards, and charterers alike.”
Efficiency Technologies Key to Compliance in Carbon-Priced Shipping
The introduction of global carbon pricing sends a clear economic signal to the maritime sector—reinforcing the importance of onboard energy efficiency and performance as critical levers for compliance and cost control.
In this context, Climeon’s HeatPower technology offers a proven, ready-to-deploy waste heat recovery solution that allows vessels to generate clean electricity from the engines’ cooling water. By reducing fuel consumption and lowering emissions, the technology helps shipowners meet emerging regulatory requirements—while improving overall energy efficiency.
Next Steps: MARPOL Amendment Timeline
The proposed amendments to MARPOL Annex VI, which formalize both the carbon pricing mechanism and the greenhouse gas fuel standard, are scheduled for formal adoption in October 2025, with entry into force expected in 2027, following the IMO’s standard 16-month implementation timeline.
While the overall framework has been agreed, specific pricing levels, emissions thresholds, and implementation details are still under development, and will continue to be refined through ongoing negotiations. As with many international regulatory processes involving a broad base of member states, timelines and details may evolve.
However, the direction is clear—and the momentum behind market-based decarbonization measures continues to grow. Revenue generated through the emissions pricing scheme will fund the newly established IMO Net-Zero Fund, aimed at supporting innovation, infrastructure, and equitable climate action across the maritime sector.
Positioned for a Changing Regulatory Landscape
Climeon sees this development not only as a turning point for sustainable shipping, but also as a key moment for the growing relevance of onboard energy efficiency technologies. With emissions now linked directly to the cost of operations, demand for scalable, fuel-saving solutions is expected to rise.
As the regulatory landscape shifts from ambition to enforcement, Climeon is well-positioned to support the maritime industry in achieving both compliance and long-term decarbonization goals.
