WSC statement at conclusion of IMO ISWG-GHG 18

“We’re encouraged by the progress made at the IMO this week ahead of the MEPC 83 meeting in April,” WSC Vice-President Environment and Climate Bryan Wood-Thomas said.

“Most importantly, we’re now seeing constructive efforts to bridge different perspectives and proposals into a global solution. We continue to work closely with member states in support of an effective solution that will make it possible to decarbonise shipping by 2050.”

“What we have consistently highlighted is the need for an economic measure that bridges the cost gap between fossil fuels and cleaner fuels. If the objective of the work we’re doing at the IMO is to decarbonise, any measure needs to address this critical issue.” 

“Any GHG obligations should be set out in the form of clear, legally binding regulations. While there are tough conversations to have, it is better to have those conversations now and ensure the measures agreed have the integrity and clarity required to be effective. While guidelines play a role in shaping the path for implementation, we need to have regulations put in place to create a level playing field,” Bryan-Wood Thomas concluded.