The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has called on developing countries to submit expressions of interest for support to create National Action Plans (NAP) to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from shipping.
Provided through the IMO’s GreenVoyage2050 programme, the technical support offers eligible developing countries the opportunity to develop tailored NAPs to confront their specific maritime challenges. The plans outline a country's strategies to reduce GHG emissions from ships.
These plans can include measures, such as enhancing institutional and legislative frameworks, promoting energy efficiency, researching and adopting low-carbon and zero-carbon fuels, accelerating port emission reduction strategies, and developing infrastructure for green shipping.
The implementation of NAPs and policy actions identified therein, can facilitate the step change needed to significantly reduce ship emissions and support achieving IMO's GHG mitigation commitments.
IMO's 2023 Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships sets ambitious goals, including achieving net-zero GHG emissions by 2050 and ensuring the uptake of alternative zero or near-zero GHG emission technologies, fuels and energy sources by 2030.
The development of a NAP requires significant coordination across ministries and stakeholders, which the TheGreenVoyage2050 programme facilitates to ensure effective development and implementation.
Selected countries will receive technical assistance, including targeted capacity-building and training, the provision of expert personnel, assistance with data analysis, technical guidance, stakeholder dialogue facilitation and administrative support.
GreenVoyage2050 manager, Astrid Dispert, said NAPs are essential for every country looking to tackle maritime GHG emissions effectively.
“Our programme not only offers technical support but also promotes collaboration among stakeholders, ensuring that these plans are practical, actionable and tailored to each country's unique needs,” Dispert said.
“By supporting the development of these plans, we enable developing countries to build a sustainable and resilient maritime future,” she said.
The IMO has invited developing countries eligible for official development assistance to submit expressions of interest by completing an online form. The deadline for submitting expressions of interest is September 6.
For more information visit the GreenVoyage2050 website or contact Astrid Dispert at greenvoyage2050@imo.org.
