LEADING port cities are demanding a faster transition to clean energy and warning that the license to operate for global maritime hubs now hinges on the support of local communities and rigorous climate action. Representatives from London, Oslo, and Los Angeles gathered at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters this week to present ambitious decarbonization roadmaps during the 84th session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC).
The reception was co-hosted by the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) and C40 Cities. It served as a platform for local leaders to urge IMO member states to align global shipping regulations with city-level climate goals.
Patrick Verhoeven, managing director of the IAPH, emphasized the growing pressure on urban maritime hubs. "Sustainability and maritime decarbonization are of critical interest to port cities and communities," Verhoeven said. "For IAPH member ports located in or close to cities and urban areas, license to operate and to grow relies to a large extent on the support and buy-in of local communities."
The delegation highlighted practical measures already being implemented to slash greenhouse gas emissions. These initiatives include expanding shore power for docked vessels to eliminate idling emissions, investing in supply chains for alternative shipping fuels, and creating green jobs through inclusive dialogue with labor unions and local residents.
Alisa Kreynes, C40’s director of Ports and Shipping, noted that these cities are proving that environmental protection and trade can coexist. "Today, London, Oslo, and Los Angeles bring a new and vital dimension to the IMO’s work," Kreynes said. She added that these examples illustrate how climate solutions can jointly protect local communities, cut emissions, and enhance supply chains.
Anita Leirvik North, Oslo’s vice mayor for Urban Development, explained how Norway’s capital has integrated its municipal climate strategy with port operations. "This joint collaboration has led to the zero-emissions port plan, which is scaling shore power and electrifying cargo-handling equipment and land transport," North stated. She further noted that the city’s leading climate budget is translating climate targets into measurable outcomes, which is "creating green jobs and building a more resilient city for everyone."
Mete Coban MBE, London’s deputy mayor for Environment and Energy, welcomed the international spotlight on the city. "As the home-city to the International Maritime Organization headquarters, London is pleased to join local leaders at the IMO to shine a spotlight on climate leadership," Coban said. He stressed that cities are at the frontline of the climate crisis and it is essential to work together to tackle it. Coban concluded that reducing greenhouse gas emissions through shipping is crucial as they continue building a greener and better London for everyone.
The event took place as IMO member states deliberate on the Net Zero Framework, which is a set of global rules intended to tackle marine pollution and carbon output.
The momentum is expected to build toward the 2026 IAPH World Ports Conference, which will be held in London and headlined by the Port of London Authority. Siân Foster, director of Corporate Affairs at the PLA, underscored the importance of safeguarding maritime trade routes while meeting environmental mandates. Founded in 1955, the IAPH represents over 200 port authorities worldwide that collectively handle more than 60 percent of global container traffic. CARMELA HUELAR
