The US delegation has shifted from bullying tactics to pushing for low-ambition net-zero shipping targets amid frenzied lobbying at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), after Europe indicated openness to changes.

The London-based IMO, a UN body, is currently hosting more than 100 national delegations seeking a pathway for the world’s cargo shipping industry to slash emissions by 40% compared to 2008 levels and aim for net-zero around 2050.

Washington had “appreciated” a demonstrative show of flexibility from the EU ahead of the talks, they added. Last week, the bloc adopted a negotiating mandate open to “amendments” – under certain conditions, like leaving the climate targets intact.

Felix Klann at pressure group Transport & Environment called it “bad-faith miscalculation and fearmongering.”

Few expect the US, however, to push for a total rejection of the carbon tax. One insider suggested the White House would not have the numbers to vote it down. However, last year EU countries, such as Denmark, which opposed the US on the matter, misjudged the outcome, as most countries backed the Americans to postpone the vote on the deal.

Thirteen EU countries, including Cyprus, Poland, France and Germany, have already met their US counterparts to discuss the details of the agreement and possible technical measures.

(aw)