Dear SYBAss member,
The extraordinary session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC ES.2) was held at the IMO in London from 14 to 17 October 2025. MEPC was convened to adopt the draft amendments to MARPOL Annex VI, including the IMO Net-Zero Framework (NZF). The IMO NZF was approved at MEPC 83 in April 2025, as a new Chapter 5 of MARPOL Annex VI. It comprises a set of international regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships, in line with IMO’s 2023 Strategy for Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships. It includes two key elements: a global fuel standard and global GHG emissions pricing mechanism.
Despite extensive deliberations and the submission of a finalised draft text, consensus could not be reached among Member States. Key points of contention included the acceptance procedure (tacit vs. explicit), the inclusion of a clause recognising the IMO Net-Zero Framework as the sole global mid-term measure for international shipping, and broader concerns over regional regulatory overlap and implementation timelines. Additionally, several delegations expressed concern over the potential impact on the maritime industry, particularly regarding increased compliance costs and administrative burdens, as well as the financial strain such measures can impose on nations.
Following a roll-call voting process, the IMO agreed to adjourn the meeting. The extraordinary session will be reconvened in 12 months’ time.
In the interim, Member States will continue to work towards consensus on the IMO Net-Zero Framework. The Intersessional Working Group on the Reduction on Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships, which was scheduled to meet 20 to 24 October 2025, will continue work on the guidelines for implementing the Net-Zero Framework.
The following notes are a summary of the relevant topics and outcomes discussed. Note that the presented information reflects the status at the time of MEPC ES.2 which may change as a result of ongoing developments. It is also uncertain at this time whether the mentioned amendments or new regulations will eventually be adopted in future versions of the Red Ensign Group Yacht Codes or other flag codes.
Best regards
Lorenzo Pollicardo
Technical & Environmental Director