HomeShipping Industry Accelerates Push Toward Net-Zero Emissions

Shipping Industry Accelerates Push Toward Net-Zero Emissions

Despite global tensions and financial ups and downs, the shipping industry is becoming more committed to cutting emissions. Shipowners, port officials, and policymakers are working together to reach net-zero goals. A recent global survey shows that the push to switch to cleaner fuels and build eco-friendly infrastructure is getting stronger and moving faster.

The survey, conducted between October 2024 and February 2025, engaged over 100 shipowners and operators from a diverse range of fleet sizes and vessel types. It shows that 60% of industry players have already set net-zero targets, up from 54% in the previous edition. Fuel transitions are well underway—bio-blended fuels are now used by nearly half the respondents, while interest in methanol has doubled. However, more advanced technologies like ammonia propulsion, air lubrication systems, and solar or wind-assisted vessels still face adoption hurdles.

Industry experts say the recently concluded International Maritime Organization (IMO) policy meeting in April has added further momentum. The new global regulations aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the sector by mid-century and incentivise early adoption of sustainable technologies. The sharpened regulatory framework is seen as a cornerstone for the long-term viability of green shipping.Yet, this green transition is not without its challenges. A major barrier identified is the economic disparity it creates.

Early movers investing in low-carbon technology face steep capital costs, while laggards benefit from lower operating expenses. Nearly three-quarters of survey respondents identified either stricter compliance mandates or enhanced financial incentives as essential to levelling the playing field.

On the financial side, the industry is looking at innovative models such as pay-as-you-save mechanisms, blended public-private financing, and carbon credits. These models can mitigate the cost disadvantage that currently deters many operators from transitioning to low-carbon solutions. As one expert noted, “Green tech adoption must make business sense, not just climate sense.”

Officials say that much of this change will be driven not just by regulation or economics, but also by evolving customer expectations and reputational risk. With multinational cargo owners now demanding emissions transparency and ESG disclosures in shipping contracts, green credentials are no longer optional.Experts believe that momentum will continue to build. Maritime decarbonisation is not a linear path but a systemic transformation requiring active participation from every node in the value chain—from shipyards and ports to regulators and financiers.

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Shipping Industry Accelerates Push Toward Net-Zero Emissions
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