INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION (IMO) – MARINE ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION COMMITTEE (MEPC) LATEST UPDATE Published: 14 May 2026 The IMO recently hosted the 84th session of the MEPC between 27 April and 1 May 2026. This was the first meeting of the MEPC, since the abortive attempt to pass the IMO Net-Zero Framework during the extraordinary session of MEPC (ES.2) in October 2025. Whilst it was not planned to find a resolution at this session, the outcomes of two Intercessional Working Group (ISWG) sessions on Greenhouse Gas (GHG) reduction were presented and further discussions took place to find an agreed way forward. All parties appear keen to find a workable solution, and it was agreed to have two further ISWG-GHG meetings before the MEPC 85 to consider various proposals and draft guidelines on how best to implement the IMO GHG strategy. Other highlights from this session include: A new emission control area under MARPOL Annex VI was adopted (following failure to adopt at MEPC ES.2). The North-East Atlantic Ocean ECA will enter into force on 1 September 2027. The sulphur content of fuel used in this area will be limited to 0.10% by mass, 12 months after the date of entry into force, from 1 September 2028). The requirements for Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) control will mean that any new ship contracted on or after 1 January 2027 will require to meet NOx Tier III engine standards when sailing in this area. Several amendments to the Ballast Water Management Convention were approved. Notably, these will require shipowners and operators to demonstrate that their ballast water management system is working properly, not simply relying upon type approval. This will involve more detailed record keeping, enhanced ballast water management plan review, and annual survey to include performance testing. These amendments are expected to enter into force in May 2028. There were also important discussions and agreements made on the improvements required for the Energy Efficiency Design Ind