In December 2025, maritime sector decarbonization efforts advanced despite regulatory hurdles at the International Maritime Organization (IMO). DHL Global Forwarding and CMA CGM's historic biofuel agreement signaled private sector momentum while an earlier IMO session delay cast doubt over global policy timelines.
Purchase of DHL and CMA CGM Seal Biofuel for Ocean Freight Transportation
On December 29th 2025, DHL Global Forwarding and CMA CGM made an important joint announcement to decarbonize ocean freight. Together they agreed to purchase 8,990 tons of second-generation UCOME biofuel and reduce well-to-wake emissions by approximately 25,000 metric tons CO2.e. This initiative integrates seamlessly with both services, allowing shippers to cut Scope 3 emissions by up to 80% when compared with fossil fuels.
CMA CGM's biofuel will be bunkered across its fleet using a book-and-claim mechanism, providing verifiable emission reductions even if not directly used on specific shipments. Casper Ellerbaek of DHL noted this deal is an important milestone in low-carbon supply chains while Olivier Nivoix, Executive Vice President Shipping at CMA CGM noted their 57% carbon intensity reduction since 2008 and investments into dual fuel vessels that align with both firms' net zero goal by 2050 goals.
This partnership showcases sustainable marine fuels as a scalable solution for customer decarbonization targets and voluntary GHG reporting. Both companies intend to continue working together towards further incorporating alternative fuels into international logistics operations.
IMO Postpones Adoption of Net Zero Framework in October Due to Delays
In October 2025, an extraordinary Marine Environment Protection Committee session (MEPC ES.2) of the IMO failed to pass its pre-approved Net Zero Framework (NZF), postponing it by one year due to procedural tactics from United States delegation and abstentions by EU member Greece and Cyprus that fractured coalition required for passage.
This delay threatens all NZF milestones, from 2030 targets to Seas At Risk reports of uncertainty for fleet investments; transitional fuels like biofuels and LNG may gain favor over zero emission options like e-methanol; discussions on fuel intensity multipliers were initiated as incentives to promote early adoption, though this can result in short-term revenue drops for compliance funds.
Advocates urge a just transition that prioritizes energy efficiency, wind propulsion and zero-emission fuels in terms of prioritizing energy efficiency, wind propulsion and zero emission fuels. With its postponement comes increased emphasis on coalition-building before any rescheduled sessions begin again.
Industry Environment and Emerging Pathways
DNV reported on methanol's readiness as marine fuel, noting over 450 vessels either ordered or operational that can use bio- and e-methanol pathways with low or negative lifecycle emissions, making methanol an appealing deep sea option in addition to biofuels.
Regionally, EU's FuelEU Maritime regulation has gained momentum since IMO has stagnated, impacting global standards and investments. Valenciaport's collaboration with Saggas to increase renewable gas uptake is set to further influence these processes.
These events highlight the maritime industry's dual track approach: private initiatives bridging regulatory gaps while pushing for ambitious global frameworks.