Odfjell leaders comment on the postponed IMO Net-Zero Framework

Internal News | 03.11.2025

The IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) meeting concluded without a consensus or vote on the proposed Net-Zero Framework (NZF), extending uncertainty around how shipping’s transition to zero emissions will be regulated.

Odfjell CEO Harald Fotland and Chair Laurence W. Odfjell shared their perspectives with Norwegian and international media following the decision. 

“A global regulatory framework is the most important tool we can get to ensure fair competition and bring the entire industry along. The postponement means we are still without the necessary predictability in a decisive decade for climate action,” said Harald Fotland, in comments to E24, Dagens Næringsliv, and rederi.no. 

“We are extremely disappointed that the NZF was not adopted. Odfjell has actively supported the framework, as we believe the industry needs common, global regulations to drive decarbonization forward.

NZF would have provided regulatory clarity and predictability. The postponement makes planning more challenging, but it will not deter us from continuing our decarbonization efforts,” Chair Laurence Odfjell said to ShippingWatch. 

He added: 

“By utilizing available technology, we have reduced the carbon intensity of our fleet by 54%. Building on this success, we will continue the transition to lower-carbon fuels, including sustainable biofuels.

Energy-efficient technology and sustainable fuels are available today—and they’re good for the environment and for the bottom line. We will continue to advance our transition plan and investments toward a net-zero future, and we encourage other shipowners to act with what is available. Every day matters.” 

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