Policy & Compliance
The 2025 Net Zero Business Census
As a result, the IMO voted to postpone the decision for 12 months, with discussions now expected to resume when the MEPC reconvenes in October 2026. The delay is a setback for those hoping to see the maritime industry take a decisive step towards decarbonisation. The framework, as previously noted, would have been the world’s first industry-wide global legally binding carbon pricing mechanism, which would have signalled serious intent from a significant sector. It was intended to replace the current patchwork of regional and national emissions trading systems. For freight forwarders, the continued fragmentation creates the potential for uncertainty and additional complexity. Shipping lines surcharges, while fragmentary regulation could result in higher administrative burdens and cost volatility throughout the supply chain. Dampened momentum The postponement may also dampen momentum for investment in alternative fuel development and green shipbuilding, limiting near-term opportunities for freight forwarders to offer low-carbon maritime options to their clients. While many have expressed disappointment at the delay, it may also provide a valuable window to refine the framework. The additional are likely to pass on carbon compliance costs through year will allow member states to address some of the unresolved issues surrounding fuel availability, safety standards, infrastructure readiness, and the equitable operation of the proposed climate fund. For the framework to succeed, it must balance ambition with practicality, ensuring that it is both effective in reducing emissions and feasible for implementation across the IMO member states. The pausing of the framework means continued near-term uncertainty over the types of fuel to be used and the associated carbon costs. However, if this period is used wisely, the eventual adoption of a stronger, more practical framework could deliver the global consistency that the sector needs for a more sustainable and resilient future.
A look at some of the key fi ndings of the latest iteration of the UK Net Zero Business Census, which gathered responses from 2,018 organisations from over 20 sectors.
The second annual UK Net Zero Business Census was formally published on 21 October 2025. The census is an annual survey designed to track UK business progress on net zero targets. BIFA was pleased to be a delivery partner for the census, with participation from BIFA Members. Net zero is defined as the point at which human-caused greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions into the atmosphere are balanced by human-caused removals from the atmosphere over a specified period. This is achieved through large- scale reductions in carbon emissions, followed by the offsetting of remaining unavoidable emissions through methods like reforestation or carbon capture. Despite the term being heavily politicised in recent months, the UK maintains its commitment to achieving net zero by 2050. This means the UK is legally committed to reducing GHG emissions by 100% compared with 1990 levels by 2050. This commitment is enshrined in law through a 2019 amendment to the Climate Change Act 2008. Benchmarking industry progress As business emissions are a major contributor to the UK’s total GHG emissions, the majority of UK organisations will need to reach net zero by 2050 to meet the target. The census aims to benchmark industry progress and provide actionable insights for organisations, policymakers and investors. The latest iteration of the census gathered responses from 2,018 organisations from over 20 sectors. Some of the key findings were: • High costs and access to finance are major barriers to industry progress on environmental targets. • Sustainability training remains a critical area for investment. • The need for greater regulatory certainty and standardised carbon reporting. • That net-zero actions which have a strong business case are more likely to be adopted, including energy efficiency measures and waste reduction practices.
• SMEs require specific support, particularly when it comes to
cascading data requirements from large organisations.
In response, BIFA will undertake a review of the census findings through its dedicated Sustainable Logistics Policy Group. This action will ensure that the interests and challenges of BIFA Members are effectively communicated to all relevant policymakers and key stakeholders. Furthermore, BIFA is already taking action to fill the training deficit in the industry through its development of the e-learning course ‘Introduction to Sustainable Logistics’. This resource will be released in early 2026 and made available to BIFA Members as part of their membership package. If members are interested in reading the report, it is available online at: https://businessclimatehub.uk/census/?ga d_source=1&gad_campaignid=209213097 54&gbraid=0AAAAAqZf9lHFtG3W4C0MPQpx sRlFbdLXu&gclid=CjwKCAiAw9vIBhBBEiwAra SATjVMp9wC9JBzMbKdXGoaHiwQXDRK2Fy6 3d8YoynkED6g3IANOl0jjhoClDgQAvD_BwE
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