Glossary
IMO (International Maritime Organization)
Definition: IMO — International Maritime Organization — the United Nations agency that develops maritime safety, environmental protection and international standards. Headquartered in London. The primary source of global shipping regulation.
Main conventions
- SOLAS — Safety of Life at Sea (vessel safety)
- MARPOL — Marine Pollution (prevention)
- STCW — Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (crew training)
- MLC — Maritime Labour Convention (seafarer rights)
- ISM Code — International Safety Management (operational safety)
IMO number
Every commercial vessel gets a unique 7-digit identifier (e.g. IMO 9876543). It stays the same even if owner, flag or name changes. Used in insurance + contract + registry processes.
IMO environmental targets
- IMO 2020 — Sulphur limit (0.5% in marine fuel)
- IMO 2030 — 40% carbon emission reduction
- IMO 2050 — 70% carbon emission reduction
These targets matter for financing:
- Older + non-compliant vessels fall into the scrappable category
- New-technology vessels qualify for green finance
- Banks look at IMO compliance