Climate activists planned to confront delegates arriving at the International Maritime Organization’s London headquarters as the future of the Net Zero Framework comes under renewed pressure.
The protest coincides with the 84th session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee, a meeting viewed as critical for advancing shipping’s greenhouse gas regulation agenda.
Activists from Glasgow Actions Team and Ocean Rebellion were due to display large banners measuring 12 metres by 3 metres outside the IMO building on Albert Embankment.
The banners carried the message: “Stand Up to Trump & the Petrostates! Green Shipping Now!”
The action comes amid efforts by President Trump and major oil-producing states to derail or weaken the Net Zero Framework, which aims to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping.
MEPC 84 is expected to address several complex issues, including the future of the Net Zero Framework, the proposed North-East Atlantic Emission Control Area and possible strategies for international carbon pricing.
Shipowners and financiers are watching the process closely. Ships ordered today and delivered in 2028 or later are likely to remain in operation around mid-century, meaning today’s regulatory decisions will shape the sector’s long-term emissions profile.
Climate campaigners argue that shipping must accelerate its transition away from carbon-heavy fuels and adopt cleaner power sources and carbon-neutral fuels across production and combustion.
Opponents of stronger climate regulation, including major political and energy interests, continue to resist measures they view as too restrictive or economically damaging.
The IMO meeting therefore represents a major test of whether the maritime sector can maintain momentum toward decarbonisation despite growing political resistance.
