Solomon Islands Voices Concerns on GHG Emission Measures

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The Government of the Solomon Islands acknowledges the approval of the mid-term package measures aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping by Member States of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) at the conclusion of the 83rd Marine Environment Protection Committee Meeting in London last week Friday, April 11, 2025.

Though this is a step forward, the Solomon Islands government remains concerned that the measures adopted fall short of the collective ambition needed to effectively address the climate crisis.

Minister for Infrastructure Development (MID) Hon. Manasseh Maelanga, head of delegation, alongside the Solomon Islands Maritime Authority (SIMA), voiced their stance of abstention towards at the closure of the meeting.

As head of the delegation, Hon. Maelanga emphasised that the current measures do not fully align with the goals and principles established in the IMO’s Revised GHG Strategy adopted on July 7, 2023. Moreover, they do not facilitate an equitable pathway for all nations to actively participate in the global transition to net-zero emissions from ships.

“We recognise the progress made, but we must also be honest about the gaps that remain,” stated Minister Maelanga.

“If left unaddressed, this outcome could undermine the stability of future efforts and allow emissions to persist when greater reductions are urgently needed. We will continue to work with all partners to strengthen this deal and ensure it delivers for everyone—especially the most vulnerable.”

The outcome of the meeting was reached through a vote, emphasising that consensus among Member States was not attained. Several nations opposed the package, citing it as too stringent and costly, while the Solomon Islands, along with 24 other member states, abstained. This abstention does not align with the opposition but rather highlights a shared concern that the current package fails to meet the crucial 1.5°C temperature goal or provide a Just and Equitable Transition (JET) for all nations.

The Solomon Islands remains steadfast in its commitment to climate ambition, international cooperation, and active engagement within the IMO. The country’s decision to abstain signals the need for continued improvement of the measures—not outright rejection—and reflects a determination to collaboratively seek outcomes that benefit all.

“We will seek to improve this deal, because if it remains unchanged, it risks creating greater instability and allowing shipping to continue polluting,” reiterated Minister Maelanga.

“This is something we cannot accept.”

As the IMO progresses towards the final adoption of the package later this year, the Solomon Islands stand ready to contribute to solutions that uphold environmental integrity, protect Small Island Development States (SIDS), and promote a transition that is advantageous for all.

Solomon Islands is a member of the African, Caribbean & Pacific (ACP) Group of States, and our decision at this international meeting will shape the trajectory of international shipping and its impact on being on the frontlines of the climate crisis.

Hon. Maelanga, accompanied by his Deputy Secretary Technical, Mike Qaqara, and SIMA officials, has since returned to Honiara over the weekend.