The US has escalated its opposition to the IMO’s Net-Zero Framework, warning of retaliatory measures amid tense debates over international efforts to curb shipping emissions before a crucial vote in October.
The United States has increased its opposition to a proposed international plan aimed at reducing carbon emissions from shipping, threatening trade and diplomatic retaliations against countries that support the initiative. Central to this controversy is the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) draft “Net-Zero Framework,” which proposes fees on ships that exceed specific carbon emissions standards. A vote on this proposal is scheduled for the IMO’s extraordinary session in October.
Despite the broad support from numerous countries, including China, Brazil, and the European Union, the U.S. withdrew from negotiations earlier this year. A U.S. administration spokesperson confirmed that Washington is “actively exploring and preparing to act on remedies including tariffs, visa restrictions, and port levies,” should the framework be adopted. The U.S. has also issued warnings to several nations, such as the Netherlands, indicating that they could face penalties if they support the plan. This aggressive stance reflects the broader U.S. reluctance to fully engage with certain international climate measures, highlighting ongoing disagreements over how to balance economic interests and environmental goals.
The IMO’s proposed framework marks a significant step in international climate efforts related to maritime transport, which accounts for nearly 3% of global CO2 emissions and facilitates about 90% of worldwide trade by sea. The draft, approved by 63 member states in April, suggests introducing fees designed to incentivize reductions in emissions from large ships that are responsible for a substantial share of shipping-related pollution. The plan includes measures such as a carbon levy, although the specific amount and implementation timeline are not detailed in all sources. Critics argue that, with only around 10% of emissions covered by the proposed levy, the measures may be inadequate to significantly curb emissions quickly, and they raise concerns that companies might simply pay fees rather than actively reducing their outputs.
The outcome of the October vote remains uncertain. A majority vote is required for approval, but the U.S.’s threats of retaliatory measures could influence other countries’ positions. The IMO has indicated that concerns from member states will be addressed in the upcoming session before any final decision, underscoring the tense negotiations amid competing economic and environmental priorities.
Overall, this situation illustrates the tensions in global climate policy, especially regarding industries like shipping that are vital for international trade but pose notable challenges for emissions reduction. The U.S.'s opposition highlights ongoing geopolitical divides on climate initiatives, and the results of the October vote will likely have significant implications for the future of international shipping regulations and global efforts to combat climate change.
Source: Noah Wire Services
