- Proceedings at the International Maritime Organization’s MEPC83 session reach a devastating deadlock, following a vote to stall negotiations until 2026.
- Member states miss out on an opportunity to meet international climate obligations through a framework widely supported by industry and civil society.
- The adoption of the Net-Zero Framework would have marked a historic moment for climate action, with shipping as the first global sector to deliver a carbon tax, emissions reduction targets, and funding for a just and equitable transition.
London, United Kingdom (17 October 2025) – C40 Cities Director of Ports and Shipping Alisa Kreynes said, “The inability to reach an outcome is a missed opportunity to accelerate a just and equitable transition in global shipping.
“Another chance to scale and invest in clean fuels has been missed, stalling inclusive climate action yet again. Small Island States and the Global South will continue to pay the biggest price for this inaction.
“The success of global maritime decarbonisation hinges on the sector’s ability to both deliver on equity and to leverage locally-led action. The needs of cities, local port communities, and workers must be taken into account.
“Despite the failure of multilateral negotiations to adopt the Net-Zero framework, cities continue to demonstrate their leadership as just transition catalysts. They are advancing equitable port decarbonisation, promoting inclusive engagement with local communities, leading with data, and pioneering unprecedented partnerships beyond their traditional powers.”
Discover how cities are driving a just and equitable maritime transition in this new C40 policy brief.