IMO: Support for developing countries for national plans to reduce GHG emissions from ships

LONDON: The International Maritime Organization (IMO) invites developing countries to express their interest in supporting the creation National Action Plans (NAPs) to reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions from maritime transport. This technical support, provided through the GreenVoyage2050 Programprovides a unique opportunity for eligible developing countries to develop tailor-made NAPs that address their specific maritime challenges.

A national action plan describes a country’s strategies to reduce GHG emissions from ships. These plans may include various measures, such as improving institutional and legislative frameworks, promoting energy efficiency, researching and adopting low-carbon or carbon-free fuels, accelerating port emission reduction strategies, and developing infrastructure for green shipping.

Implementation of the NAPs and the policy measures identified therein can facilitate the step change needed to significantly reduce emissions from ships and support the achievement of IMO GHG mitigation commitments.

The IMO 2023 Strategy on Reducing GHG Emissions from Ships (resolution MEPC.377(80)) sets ambitious targets, including achieving net-zero GHG emissions by 2050 or thereabouts, and ensuring the adoption of zero or near-zero GHG-emitting alternative technologies, fuels and energy sources by 2030.

The GreenVoyage2050 programme actively supports partner countries in the process of developing a national maritime emissions benchmark to inform evidence-based policymaking and highlight priority actions. Developing a NAP requires significant coordination across different ministries and stakeholders. The GreenVoyage2050 programme facilitates these dialogues to ensure effective NAP development and implementation. Selected countries will receive technical assistance, including targeted capacity building and training, provision of expert staff, assistance with data analysis, technical advice, facilitation of stakeholder dialogue and administrative support.

Ms. Astrid Dispert, Head of GreenVoyage2050, said: “National action plans are essential for every country looking to effectively address GHG emissions from shipping. Our programme not only provides technical support, but also fosters collaboration between stakeholders, ensuring that these plans are practical, achievable and tailored to the specific needs of each country. By supporting the development of these plans, we are enabling developing countries to build a sustainable and resilient maritime future.”

Developing countries eligible for Official Development Assistance are invited to submit their Expression of Interest by completing an online form – more information is available here. The application process requires the engagement of national stakeholders, including for the organization of local workshops and the coordination of communication between the public and private sectors. The deadline for submission of Expressions of Interest is 6 September 2024.

For more information, please visit the GreenVoyage2050 website or contact Ms. Astrid Dispert at [email protected].

National action plans

IMO Resolution MEPC.367(79), adopted in 2022, encourages Member States to develop and submit voluntary NAPs describing their respective policies and actions to address GHG emissions from ships. A comprehensive NAP describes a country’s strategies and actions to reduce GHG emissions from ships.

Green Travel 2050

GreenVoyage2050 is a major technical cooperation programme launched by IMO to support developing countries in reducing GHG emissions from shipping, in line with the IMO GHG Strategy 2023. Phase I of GreenVoyage2050 (2020-2023) supported partner countries in developing policy frameworks and pilot projects to reduce GHG emissions from ships. Phase II (2024-2030) will continue and expand this support, mobilizing substantial funding from donors including Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Norway.