Environment & IMO
Latest Environment & IMO reporting, analysis and industry developments.
CMB.TECH’s Ammonia-Powered Bulk Carrier Begins Maiden Voyage to Australia
CMB.TECH’s Mineral Europa, described by the company as the world’s first ammonia-powered dry bulk vessel, has started its maiden voyage to Australia. The 210,000-dwt ship is the first of 21 ammonia-powered vessels planned for delivery by 2029.
10 Oct 2026 · 20:13
IMO Net-Zero Framework Survives Latest Round of Climate Negotiations
The IMO’s proposed global shipping emissions framework remains the leading option after four days of technical talks in London, despite opposition to its carbon pricing and revenue mechanisms from the United States and several oil-producing countries.
05 Sep 2026IMO advances emissions talks and adopts North-East Atlantic control area
IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee has agreed on further negotiations over the Net-Zero Framework, adopted a North-East Atlantic Emission Control Area and approved measures covering plastic litter, ballast water and marine pollution risks.
04 Sep 2026
Singapore completes first CNSL co-processed bio-bunkering trial
Vitol Bunkers and Olam Agri have completed Singapore’s first bunkering trial using VLSFO co-processed with cashew nutshell liquid. The fuel was supplied to MV Scion Mathilda and consumed during a voyage without reported operational issues or additional onboard treatment.
27 Aug 2026
Freight Buyers Face Higher Complexity if IMO Net-Zero Vote Fails
Baxter Freight’s Tom Isler argues that freight buyers, rather than only shipowners, have a direct stake in the IMO Net-Zero Framework vote, as failure could accelerate a patchwork of regional carbon schemes and less transparent surcharges.
27 Aug 2026
UGS calls for realistic global framework on shipping decarbonisation
Union of Greek Shipowners President Melina Travlos has urged IMO Member States to pursue a practical and globally supported approach to maritime decarbonisation, highlighting fuel availability, affordability and vessel energy efficiency ahead of ISWG-GHG 22 and MEPC 85.
25 Aug 2026
UK Chamber report maps safety risks across five alternative marine fuel pathways
The UK Chamber of Shipping has assessed preliminary safety risks associated with biofuels, methanol, hydrogen, ammonia and battery energy storage systems, highlighting the need for operational readiness, robust safety protocols and clearer regulation alongside shipping’s energy transition.
20 Aug 2026
EMSA deploys oil spill response assets in Bulgaria’s BREEZE 2026 exercise
EMSA mobilised the stand-by recovery vessel Amalthia and a Current Buster 4 containment system during the annual BREEZE 2026 operational exercise near Burgas, Bulgaria.
18 Aug 2026