Decision on the IMO Net-Zero Framework delayed for one year
The 2nd extraordinary session of the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC/ES.2) decided to delay adoption of new requirements on greenhouse gas (GHG) fuel intensity, in combination with a pricing and reward mechanism. The meeting will continue in October 2026.
Information for: Ship owners and managers, equipment manufacturers and fuel suppliers.
Adoption of amendments to mandatory instruments
MEPC/ES.2 considered adoption of two amendments to MARPOL Annex VI:
- The IMO Net-Zero Framework (NZF), setting out new requirements on GHG fuel intensity, in combination with a pricing and reward mechanism
- Designation of the North-East Atlantic as an ECA for SOx, PM and NOx
The MEPC remained divided throughout the meeting and during the final day. A majority of 57 member states voted to adjourn the meeting for one year, while 49 voted to continue. As a result, the amendments were not adopted, and the meeting will continue in October 2026. This means that the possible entry into force will be on 1 March 2028 at the earliest. We may also see other changes to the NZF.
References
- Free Webinar, 29 October: IMO’s MEPC extraordinary session – the Net-Zero Framework in focus
- NZF topic page
- IMO DCS topic page
- CII topic page
- EEXI topic page
- Emissions Connect service
Recommendations
DNV recommends that our customers take note of the delayed adoption of the IMO Net-Zero Framework on GHG emissions reduction, as well as of the North-East Atlantic Ocean ECA.
We also recommend signing up for our free webinar discussing the outcome of MEPC/ES.2, taking place on 29 October 2025.
