"We are very optimistic that initial CO2 reduction objectives can now be developed by IMO for the sector by 2018," said Simon Bennett, ICS director of policy and external relations. “The final stage to be enacted by 2023 should establish a global mechanism for ensuring that these initial IMO commitments - which the industry wants to see agreed by 2018 - will actually be delivered.”

Bennett said that although controversial, "the clear preference of the majority of the industry would be for a global levy based on fuel consumption" - more commonly known as a carbon tax.

Bennett prefaced this suggestion by noting that it "remains very controversial and is not yet universally supported."

Climate advocates have voiced concern that the MEPC 70 "road map" towards a climate plan would not result in action until 2023 at the earliest. An already-finalized emissions offset scheme for international airlines - the other industry left out of the COP21/22 negotiations - goes into effect in 2021, although it will not become mandatory until 2027.

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