UNFCCC COP 15 – INTERIM REPORT
So far ICS has been represented at three side events in Copenhagen and has presented the ICS position on the industry’s history of efficiency, the role of IMO, the package of technical and operational measures and the basic elements of possible MBI options. ICS also provided written support for a 4th event at which BIMCO represented the shipping industry. All of these presentations have been aimed specifically at persuading UNFCCC negotiators to draft text that passes responsibility for regulating shipping to the IMO.
Within the UNFCCC process, it appears that there are two parallel private negotiations going on with respect to shipping (and aviation). In the first, negotiators are developing a text that appears likely to cede control of shipping regulation to IMO although even at this level the likelihood of success reportedly ebbs and flows. Information on this level of the process can be obtained unofficially and ICS is attempting to keep up with progress. It appears likely that IMO will be ‘encouraged’ to produce and implement shipping regulations in support of medium and long-term goals. However there is much less certainty that the principle of CBDR can be removed from the IMO process and this is probably at the core of the current drafting problem. At this stage no concrete outcome can be reported as the text appears to change its direction at every session.
The second, parallel, process is at the highest political level and is concerned with identifying sources of funding for the developing world for mitigation and adaptation measures. Observers are unable to gain any insight into this very closely guarded process but it is fair to say that those negotiating at the lower level are wary that their work may be overtaken by the high level political imperatives.
A draft outline text was released on the morning of Saturday 12th December (see www.unfccc.int) and this contains a placeholder (at paragraph 32) but no text for aviation and marine bunker fuel.
A further report will be produced as and when appropriate.
P B Hinchliffe
Marine Director
International Chamber of Shipping
15/12/09