International shipping regulations are on the brink of significant change. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has adopted new CO₂ intensity targets that will apply from 2026. These changes will particularly affect exporters that rely on international maritime trade. In this article, you will learn what the 2026 IMO CO₂ regulations mean for your company and how you can best prepare for them.
The 2026 IMO CO₂ regulations relate to new requirements for reducing CO₂ emissions in international shipping. From 2026, ships must reduce their CO₂ intensity by 2 % annually. This measure was adopted by the IMO as part of its strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from shipping. The long-term goal is to reduce CO₂ emissions from international shipping to net zero by 2050.
The new IMO CO₂ regulations have a direct impact on exporters who transport their goods by sea:
Exporters should review their logistics processes and, if necessary, adapt them in order to achieve the emission targets. This can be done by selecting low-emission means of transport, optimising route planning or using efficient port infrastructures.
The use of alternative fuels such as LNG, methanol or ammonia can help to reduce emissions. The use of wind energy, solar energy or fuel cells is another way to reduce CO₂ emissions and fulfil IMO requirements.
Employees should be informed about the new regulations and trained accordingly. This is the only way to ensure efficient implementation of the measures, particularly in areas such as route planning and the use of new technologies.
| Measure | Description of the |
|---|---|
| Carry out emission analysis | Determine the current emissions of your means of transport. |
| Check alternative fuels | Find out about the use of LNG, methanol or ammonia. |
| Route optimisation | Check your transport routes for efficiency and environmental friendliness. |
| Planning technological investments | Invest in modern, low-emission technologies. |
| Train employees | Sensitise your team to the new requirements. |
Ships that do not meet the specified emission targets must expect to incur additional costs. These can be offset by paying CO₂ levies or by purchasing emission credits.
Technologies such as wind support, fuel cells, exhaust gas aftertreatment systems and the use of LNG or methanol as fuels can help to reduce emissions. There are also innovative approaches such as the use of solar energy on ships to reduce fuel consumption.
Companies can calculate the emissions of their ships using the IMO guidelines for the life cycle analysis (LCA) of maritime fuels. These help to determine and, if necessary, optimise the company's emissions balance.
The 2026 IMO CO₂ regulations present exporters with new challenges, but also offer opportunities. By taking proactive measures such as adapting logistics strategies, investing in low-emission technologies and training employees, companies can not only fulfil the legal requirements but also position themselves as pioneers in terms of sustainability. Addressing the new regulations at an early stage is therefore essential in order to remain competitive in an increasingly environmentally conscious market.
Disclaimer: All information in this article has been carefully researched but is subject to change at any time. ODS Orient accepts no liability for the topicality, accuracy and completeness of the information provided.
International shipping regulations are on the brink of significant change. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has adopted new CO₂ intensity targets that will apply from 2026. These changes will particularly affect exporters that rely on international maritime trade. In this article, you will learn what the 2026 IMO CO₂ regulations mean for your company and how you can best prepare for them. [...]
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