The International Maritime Organization will hold MEPC 84 from April 27 to May 1 May 2026, with discussions set to shape near-term compliance and future fuel direction.
Key areas to watch:
- Net-zero framework: Talks resume after last year’s failed agreement. No final deal expected, but direction of travel may become clearer.
- MARPOL updates: Possible adoption of amendments covering fuel data reporting, engine performance and emissions rules.
- Methane and N₂O: Continued work on non-CO₂ greenhouse gases, an increasing regulatory focus.
- Emissions monitoring: Progress on guidelines for onboard monitoring systems.
- Carbon capture: Further discussion on onboard carbon capture (OCCS) as a compliance option.
- Regional ECA: A proposed North-East Atlantic Emission Control Area may be debated, with implications for fuel demand and compliance strategies.
- Other environmental items: Including ballast water, anti-fouling and pollution controls.
Outlook:
MEPC 84 is expected to deliver incremental progress rather than a major breakthrough, but outcomes will help define how the industry navigates emissions compliance in the coming years.
