More to MEPC 84 than NZF

“We are back on track, but we have to rebuild trust,” said IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez. “I encourage you to maintain this momentum through your intersessional work and to prepare submissions that can bring the membership together.”  According to ABS, key takeaways from MEPC 84 include: Net‑Zero Framework: The committee reaffirmed the importance of developing a globally applicable IMO Net‑Zero Framework based on international consensus, while recognizing that further technical and political work is required. MEPC agreed to continue consideration of the NZF and alternative proposals on an intersessional basis ahead of MEPC 85.  Fifth IMO GHG Study: MEPC approved the terms of reference for the fifth IMO GHG Study and invited the secretariat to initiate the nomination process for the steering committee. The study will update global GHG inventories and projections and will support the future review of the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy.  Life‑Cycle GHG Assessment: The committee progressed work on the IMO LCA framework, including default emission factors, fuel pathway developments, and methodological treatment of carbon capture technologies. GESAMP‑LCA was instructed to continue technical refinements and report to MEPC 85.  Energy Efficiency and Air Pollution: MEPC adopted amendments and guidelines related to IMO DCS accessibility, EEDI/EEXI, and emissions measurement and monitoring, and noted continued improvement in fleet‑wide carbon intensity. Onboard Carbon Capture: The committee advanced draft guidelines on the testing, approval, survey and certification of onboard carbon capture systems, agreeing on a technology‑neutral, step‑wise approach.  Ballast Water Management: MEPC approved draft amendments to the BWM Convention Annex and associated guidelines, enhancing requirements on system operation, maintenance, certification, and challenging water quality.  New Emission Control Areas: The committee adopted the North‑East Atlantic Emission Control Area and approved protective measures for designated PSSAs.

Other notable outcomes:
Amendments on Integrated Bilge Water Treatment Systems (IBTS) under MARPOL Annex I.
Agreement to develop a legally binding biofouling framework by 2029.
Adoption of the 2026 Strategy and Action Plan on Marine Plastic Litter.
Measures on underwater radiated noise, ozone‑depleting substances, and preparatory work on maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS).