The maritime sector and many governments are engaging at the Dubai Climate Summit this year, focusing on accelerating measures to cut emissions. Globally, maritime transport accounts for roughly 80% of world trade and contributes about 3% of greenhouse gas emissions, around 13% of nitrogen oxides, and 12% of sulfur oxides, according to recent ISGlobal findings. These figures underscore the urgent need for faster progress in this industry.
Actions in this field must move more quickly. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) recently approved a strategy with targets to reach net zero emissions by 2030 and 2050, though implementation remains tied to national conditions. The plan envisions a global effort with varying timelines by country, with the least developed economies supported by more advanced nations. The strategy also notes that reducing emissions from international shipping could be advanced through a mix of technologies, fuels, or energy sources that produce zero or near-zero greenhouse gas emissions, potentially achieving substantial cuts by 2030 in certain sectors.
Emission payments
To speed up the transition, the IMO aims to implement an emissions pricing framework by 2025, a move that Europe has been pursuing since 2024. As John Kerry—climate action chief and U.S. presidential envoy—noted in Dubai, if shipping were a nation, it would be among the world’s largest emitters. He emphasized that global zero-emission goals will not be reached by 2050 without the maritime sector playing a central role in the transition. The United States and Norway have been leading an international initiative launched last year, with participation from governments and operators, first highlighted at COP27 in Sharm El Sheikh, and reaffirmed in Dubai this year, to coordinate emission reductions in shipping.
As part of the Green Shipping Challenge, the United States, Norway, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom stated their intent to support developing countries through IMO funds and programs to upgrade infrastructure and reach emission targets. Belgium also announced plans to transform the Port of Antwerp-Bruges into a major green hydrogen import hub and to take significant steps to green its fleet on the path to zero emissions. France and Germany pledged government assistance to decarbonize shipping as well.
Ecological corridors
Japan and Canada signaled plans to create ecological sea corridors supported by zero-emission ships and carbon-neutral ports. Norway outlined domestic shipping rules tailored to achieve near-zero emissions. The United Kingdom has also pursued bilateral agreements with several nations to establish green sea corridors. Namibia emerged as a potential site for corridor development, supported by a Green Hydrogen Program in partnership with research institutions and Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller, aiming to map carbon-free routes. This aligns with the broader strategy of mapping new green corridors announced by a major logistics firm.
Wind propulsion
Private efforts to decarbonize are advancing rapidly and fueling innovation. A Dubai-based company is pushing wind propulsion toward practical use in maritime transport; Yara International has introduced the first cargo ship powered by ammonia, one of the cleanest available fuels today, currently operating. A notable milestone is the first decarbonized sea route between Norway and Germany; through initiatives like Zephyr and Borée, new canopy concepts for cargo guidance are being explored and tested, moving toward a wind-assisted or wind-forward future for shipping.