The IMO’s global framework to cut greenhouse gas emissions from shipping, the Net-Zero Framework (NZF), faces a decisive moment in December 2026. Here is where things stand and what shipowners and administrations should watch.

How we got here

The draft NZF was approved for circulation at MEPC 83 in April 2025. It combines a global fuel standard (a GHG Fuel Intensity, or GFI, requirement) with an economic element. Formal adoption was expected at an extraordinary session in October 2025, but that session was adjourned for one year because Member States remained divided.

MEPC 84 (27 April – 1 May 2026)

MEPC 84 did not reach a compromise between States wanting the framework adopted largely as drafted and those favouring a slower, “market readiness” approach. Work was passed to intersessional working groups. The Committee did advance several other items:

Terms of reference for the 5th IMO GHG Study, supporting the 2028 review of the IMO GHG Strategy
A new North-East Atlantic Emission Control Area for NOx, SOx and particulate matter
Ballast water amendments requiring ships to show that their systems actually operate and are maintained to D-2 standard, not only that they are installed and type-approved
A new MARPOL Annex I regulation 12A permitting integrated bilge water treatment systems

ISWG-GHG 22 (1–4 September 2026)

Reporting from the September working group suggests positions are moving towards a softer start. More States are now open to easing GFI requirements for 2029–2035 and to a two-tier GFI structure. A majority still lean towards a fund or similar financial mechanism, and towards incentives for zero and near-zero emission fuels. The lifecycle assessment guidelines were deferred to November for lack of time.

The December timeline

ISWG-GHG 23: 23–27 November 2026
MEPC 85: 30 November – 3 December 2026
Resumed extraordinary session (MEPC/ES.2): possibly 4 December 2026, for formal adoption if consensus or a vote allows

If the amendments are not adopted in December, the next opportunity is expected at MEPC 86 in October 2027.

What to prepare now

Whatever the final design, the direction is clear: fuel-intensity tracking, lifecycle emissions and verified data will drive compliance. Operators should strengthen their fuel and emissions data management and review SEEMP and CII planning. Administrations should begin planning for verification and enforcement capacity.

Polaris supports clients with regulatory gap analysis, MARPOL Annex VI compliance reviews and management-system integration. Talk to our team about preparing for the Net-Zero Framework.

Sources: Lloyd’s Register MEPC 84 summary; ENGINE: Can December deliver a breakthrough?; DNV on the 2025 adjournment.