NGOs call on IMO to exclude biofuels from compliance with the Net-Zero Framework

In the UK, Biofuelwatch, Forest Watch Indonesia and Global Forest Coalition are calling the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to exclude biofuels from compliance with the Net-Zero Framework. Last week, during the Extraordinary Session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC ES.2) in London, countries decided to postpone the decision on the adoption of the Framework to 2026. But important discussions will continue on October 20–24 on key details on clean energy incentives in the Framework, and the organizations stress the importance of preventing biofuels from being included as a “green” alternative to fossil fuels.

The campaigners say o avoid negative impacts, the IMO should make sure high-ILUC fuels are excluded in the Framework. Major national and industry frameworks, including the EU’s Maritime and Aviation policies, the UK SAF Mandate, and the International Civil Aviation Authority’s CORSIA scheme, already exclude or cap high-ILUC biofuels, or include ILUC emissions in the life cycle accounting.