The International Maritime Organization's (IMO) plans to tackle shipping emissions have been significantly delayed due to a controversial threat from the United States. President Trump's decision to impose sanctions on countries supporting the measure has led to a 12-month postponement of the vote, despite the Net Zero Framework (NZF) already being approved by IMO members in April. This delay has sparked concern among environmental advocates and industry experts alike, who see it as a missed opportunity to combat climate change. The IMO, a United Nations body, is responsible for regulating international shipping and preventing pollution on the high seas. The delay has been criticized by various countries and organizations, including Vanuatu's climate change minister, who emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change. The NZF, if adopted, would have been the first global carbon-pricing system, incentivizing ships to reduce emissions. However, the threat of sanctions and visa restrictions from the US has created a challenging environment for the IMO's efforts to regulate shipping emissions.
