Joel Ong, Research Assistant at the Centre for International Law (CIL), presented at the 4th IUCN World Environmental Law Congress, held from 5–7 May 2025 in Rabat, Morocco. Speaking during the Congress’ thematic session on Integrated Climate and Nature Protection, Joel delivered a presentation titled “Interconnected Governance Challenges of Addressing Climate Change and Shipping.”

Drawing on his research published in the Carbon & Climate Law Review, Joel explored the emerging legal and governance challenges in regulating emissions from international shipping. He highlighted the disconnect between global climate ambition and maritime legal infrastructure, particularly around lifecycle emissions, “greenwashing” risks from uncertified alternative fuels, and the absence of liability rules for non-oil bunker spills. Notably, he pointed out that coal-based methanol—which can be chemically hard to distinguish from its green version—can emit nearly 5 kg of CO₂ per kg produced, making it up to 50% worse than conventional heavy fuel oil.

He further emphasized that these regulatory gaps could undermine both environmental protection and equitable revenue distribution, particularly as the IMO prepares to generate up to USD 30–40 billion annually through its new carbon pricing mechanism. In the absence of an expanded liability regime, current instruments such as the CLC, Bunkers, and HNS Conventions fail to address risks posed by alternative fuels—potentially exposing vulnerable coastal States to unremedied harm. Joel proposed the establishment of an integrated legal framework and dedicated compensation fund to ensure adequate redress and accountability.

The Congress brought together over 300 legal experts and environmental professionals worldwide and featured keynote remarks by H.E. Ambassador Rena Lee (Singapore) and Chief Justice Antonio Herman Benjamin (Brazil).