MEPC80 — Reflections and Implications

Host: Engebret Dahm CEO, Klaveness Combination Carriers

Guests: Helene Tofte, Political Advisor at Norwegian Shipowners'​ Association and Sofie Fogstad Vold, Senior Advisor at Norwegian Ministry of Climate and Environment

Synopsis: We delve into the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) revised Greenhouse Gas (GHG) strategy agreed at the MEPC80 meetings held July 2023 , seen by many as a pivotal step in the shipping industry's journey towards decarbonization. Hosted by Engebret Dahm, the episode features discussions with Sofie Fogstad Vold, Senior Adviser in the Norwegian Ministry of Climate and Environment, and Helene Tofte, Executive Director at the Norwegian Shipowners Association. They explore the intricacies of the IMO's decision-making process, evaluate the revised GHG strategy, and discuss the future prospects for shipping’s decarbonization journey.

Discussion Points:

• IMO and MEPC's decision-making process
• Key elements and analysis of the revised GHG strategy
• Updating short-term measures, including plans for revising short-term regulations such as EEXI and CII.
• Challenges and realistic outcomes for medium-term measures
• Priorities for medium-term decarbonization initiatives
• Alternatives to IMO regulations – what are potential “Plan B” scenarios?

About Tofte: Helene Tofte is the Executive Director of the Department of International Cooperation and Climate. She has the overarching responsibility for the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association’s international engagement and climate activities, with special focus on monitoring international climate processes.

About Vold: Sofie Fogstad Vold works as senior advisor at the Norwegian Ministry for Climate and Environment, among other with the International Maritime Organization negotiations related to the climate and environment framework for shipping.