About IMO
IMO - the International Maritime Organization - is the United Nations specialized agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine and atmospheric pollution by ships. IMO's work supports the UN SDGs.Activities by IMO
Marine Environmental Protection
GlobalThe IMO is promoting Just-In-Time (JIT) arrivals for ships to reduce fuel consumption and GHG emissions. It is expected that AI will assist with voyage optimization, weather routeing, and JIT arrivals. AI could also help in training seafarers with safe handling of alternative low-carbon fuels and other decarbonization technology.
Activity Type Research/Reports/AssessmentsMaritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS)
Asia and the Pacific, Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States ChinaDenmarkFinlandJapanNetherlandsNorwayRepublic of KoreaSingaporeUnited KingdomUSThe IMO developed interim guidelines and is working towards a goal-based MASS Code, with a mandatory version envisaged for 2028. AI is a key part of MASS functionality, such as for collision avoidance, and the project considers safety and security aspects of AI systems for MASS operations.
Activity Type Policy/Regulatory GuidanceResearch/Reports/AssessmentsKnowledge building
Global Not ApplicableA seminar/workshop to strengthen the knowledge of the maritime community, IMO staff, and delegates on AI.
Activity Type Awareness/AdvocacyMaritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS)
Asia and the Pacific, Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States ChinaDenmarkFinlandJapanNetherlandsNorwayRepublic of KoreaSingaporeUnited KingdomUSThe IMO developed interim guidelines and is working towards a goal-based MASS Code, with a mandatory version envisaged for 2028. AI is a key part of MASS functionality, such as for collision avoidance, and the project considers safety and security aspects of AI systems for MASS operations.
Activity Type Policy/Regulatory GuidanceResearch/Reports/Assessments