The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is poised to make groundbreaking advancements in climate policy, particularly with proposed binding regulations to phase out fossil fuel use in global shipping. This momentum has been significantly bolstered by the leadership of Pacific nations, including representatives from Fiji, the Marshall Islands, the Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.
At a press conference held by the 6PAC+ alliance at the IMO headquarters in London, these ministers, alongside Albon Ishoda, the Special Envoy for Maritime Decarbonisation from the Marshall Islands, expressed optimism about an ambitious outcome from the upcoming marine environment meeting, MEPC 83. Ishoda emphasized the critical nature of these discussions, stating, “The 1.5°C target is not a negotiating position – it is a survival threshold.” He underscored the urgent need for regulations to ensure the future viability of international shipping and to combat climate change.
The alliance has pushed for the establishment of a global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions pricing mechanism, covering all emissions from the first tonne, starting at a price of at least $150 per tonne. Tuvalu’s Minister Simon Kofe expressed the necessity of unity among member states, reminding all participants that the resolution sought is for the benefit of humanity as a whole, not just individual nations.
Ministers from the Pacific region, along with Caribbean and African counterparts, are advocating for this GHG pricing to drive rapid emissions reductions and support a Just and Equitable Transition. Vanuatu’s Minister Ralph Revenganu highlighted this moment as a potential “game changer,” stressing that if adopted, it could set a precedent as the first comprehensive industry-wide regulation established by a multilateral UN body.
Previous discussions among the IMO member states have already set targets for reaching net zero emissions by or around 2050 and laid out decarbonisation targets for 2030 and 2040. Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez referred to the upcoming meeting as a pivotal moment in efforts to tackle climate change on a global scale. There is a strong call for adherence to scientific integrity in negotiations, ensuring that the outcomes truly reflect the priorities and needs of vulnerable states.
Despite notable progress, Ishoda warned against any compromises that might jeopardize the environmental integrity of the proposed measures, asserting that exemptions and vague pledges would not suffice and that the commitment to transitioning to low-emission fuels must be clear and firm.
This cooperative effort among Pacific Island nations demonstrates a growing solidarity in the fight against climate change and highlights the importance of equitable solutions, especially for those nations least responsible for the crisis yet most affected by its consequences. As anticipation builds around the potential outcomes of MEPC 83, there’s a palpable sense of hope that these initiatives will lead to substantial, actionable commitments to safeguard the environment for future generations.
Leave a comment