The IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) 82 took place in London from 30 September - 4 October 2024. During the week, various measures regarding the marine environment were at the forefront of discussions. The meeting was central to the IMO’s strategy to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, focusing on mid-term measures, the review of the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), and updates to the Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) and the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI).
Mid-term GHG reduction measures
One of the key areas discussed during MEPC 82 was mid-term measures for reducing GHG emissions. This session followed ongoing talks about how to bridge the gaps between different proposals on market-based solutions, such as carbon pricing mechanisms, and technical approaches, including the adoption of alternative fuels. Despite several debates, no final consensus was reached on these issues due to conflicting views among member states around the economic impacts of proposed measures on developing nations and how best to balance shipping's need for decarbonisation with the preservation of global food security.
This delay in decision-making indicates that further discussions will be necessary before the IMO can implement comprehensive mid-term solutions. Nevertheless, the meeting reflected an ongoing commitment to finding ways to drive the shipping industry towards the 2050 net-zero target.
Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and SEEMP
The review of the CII framework, which rates ships based on their carbon efficiency, was another major talking point at MEPC 82. Since its introduction in 2023, the CII has been a cornerstone of the IMO's strategy to reduce carbon emissions, with ships required to meet specific targets to avoid penalties. However, feedback from the industry suggested that the CII system could be unfair in many cases, particularly for vessels operating under different conditions and voyage patterns, which may not accurately reflect their true energy efficiency.
To address these concerns, MEPC 82 considered potential revisions to the CII. The committee agreed that by 2026, a more thorough review would be conducted to assess the effectiveness of the CII in reducing emissions, and if needed, implement additional measures. Similarly, updates to the Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP), which is designed to help ship operators manage energy efficiency on board, were discussed, ensuring that the framework continues to drive improvements.
Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI)
The Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI), which applies to ships of 400 gross tonnage or more, was also under review. Introduced alongside the CII as part of the IMO's short-term GHG reduction strategy, the EEXI focuses on ensuring that older ships meet modern energy efficiency standards. This measure is essential as it addresses the existing fleet, ensuring that not only new builds, but also older vessels are part of the decarbonisation effort.
While the EEXI was implemented in 2023, its effectiveness will be reviewed alongside the CII framework, with adjustments likely to be made by 2026 if the system does not drive the expected levels of emission reductions.
Moving forward
MEPC 82 demonstrated that while there is strong international support for decarbonising the maritime industry, the path forward is complex and requires ongoing negotiation. Achieving the IMO’s ambitious GHG reduction goals will involve not only technical advancements, such as the development of alternative fuels, but also a fine-tuning of regulatory frameworks like CII and EEXI. Additionally, digitalisation can effectively pave the way for decarbonisation, by leveraging shipping data, ensuring compliance and enabling decision-making. Digital tools can track, analyse, and review vessel’s emissions, emerging as a long-term solution for efficiency and environmental responsibility. The outcomes of this session indicate a long-term commitment to a cleaner shipping industry, but also the need for flexibility and cooperation among nations to ensure fair implementation.
The discussions around technical assistance for developing nations were also crucial. MEPC 82 reaffirmed the importance of supporting developing countries, including small island developing states (SIDS), which are particularly vulnerable to climate change but face challenges in complying with these new regulations. This session underlined the IMO's intention to ensure that no nation is left behind in the decarbonisation journey.
Conclusion
In summary, while MEPC 82 did not deliver concrete decisions on all fronts, it paved the way for future progress in shipping’s decarbonisation. The updates to the CII, SEEMP, and EEXI frameworks are set to play a pivotal role in the industry’s ability to reduce GHG emissions, and continued international cooperation along with the adoption of digital technology will be key to overcoming the challenges ahead. As the industry aims to align with emerging regulations on environmental impact, new digital tools can help shipping companies reduce their carbon footprint.
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