IMO Backs On-Board Carbon Mineralisation as Permanent CO₂ Storage Method

## IMO Endorses On-Board Carbon Mineralisation Proposal The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has extended principle support to a landmark proposal led by Shanghai Qiyao Technology Group Co., Ltd. that seeks to formally recognise on-board carbon mineralisation as a legitimate and permanent method of CO₂ storage, according to a PR Newswire release dated 25 June 2026. The development represents a meaningful regulatory milestone for the shipping industry as it navigates mounting pressure to decarbonise. Carbon mineralisation — a process by which captured CO₂ is converted into stable mineral compounds — has long been discussed as a potential solution for hard-to-abate emissions sectors, but its application aboard vessels has, until now, lacked formal international recognition. ### What Carbon Mineralisation Means for Shipping Unlike conventional carbon capture and storage (CCS) approaches that require CO₂ to be offloaded and transported to dedicated storage sites, on-board mineralisation converts captured emissions into solid mineral form directly on the vessel. Proponents argue this eliminates the logistical challenges associated with CO₂ offloading at port and offers a more practical pathway for deep-sea and long-haul shipping routes where port access may be limited. Shanghai Qiyao Technology Group, a Chinese industrial technology conglomerate, has been at the forefront of developing this technology for maritime applications. The IMO's principle support signals that the organisation is open to incorporating such methods within its evolving regulatory framework for greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions. ### Regulatory Context The IMO's endorsement comes as the organisation continues to refine its 2023 GHG Strategy, which targets net-zero emissions from international shipping by or around 2050. Establishing clear definitions and recognition for emerging carbon abatement technologies is considered essential to giving shipowners and operators the regulatory certainty needed to invest in new solutions. While principle support does not equate to full regulatory adoption, it is a critical precursor that typically paves the way for more detailed technical and legal work within IMO sub-committees. Industry observers will be watching closely for follow-up action at forthcoming sessions of the IMO's Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC). ### Industry Significance If on-board carbon mineralisation is formally integrated into IMO frameworks, it could open a new commercial avenue for technology developers and provide shipowners with an additional compliance tool alongside alternative fuels and energy efficiency measures. The move also underscores the growing influence of Chinese maritime technology firms in shaping international regulatory discussions. *Source: PR Newswire, 25 June 2026*