Supporting the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy in the ASEAN Region

The SMART-C GHG Project, implemented by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) under the IMO–Republic of Korea (RoK) SMART-C Partnership Programme, is a capacity-building initiative that supports the Philippines and Viet Nam to advance the implementation of the 2023 IMO Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships. The project focuses on three key areas: supporting the development of National Action Plans (NAPs) on maritime decarbonization, strengthening national GHG emissions data collection and monitoring system, and enhancing the capacity of maritime administrations and relevant stakeholders including seafarers. It also promotes regional collaboration by facilitating knowledge sharing and the exchange of best practices with other ASEAN Member States, supporting a coordinated approach to reducing maritime emissions across the region.

Contributing to the UN SDGs:

Beneficiary Countries

Lead Pilot Countries

Capacity-Building in Two Asian Pilot Countries for the Development of National Action Plans and Implementation of the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy with the Help of GHG Emission Data from Maritime Sector (Philippines and Viet Nam)

The Philippines

Viet Nam

Project Components

Strengthening Capacity for the Implementation of the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy

The SMART-C GHG Project strengthens the technical knowledge and practical capabilities required to support the effective implementation of MARPOL Annex VI and accelerate the sector’s decarbonization transition. Through a comprehensive programme of workshops, technical training, and knowledge-sharing activities, the project equips maritime officers, ship and port operators, seafarers, Flag State Implementation officers (FSIOs) ,Port State Control officers (PSCO) and other key stakeholders with the skills needed to implement the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy.

The SMART-C GHG Project strengthens the technical knowledge and practical capabilities required to support the effective implementation of MARPOL Annex VI and accelerate the sector’s decarbonization transition. Through a comprehensive programme of workshops, technical training, and knowledge-sharing activities, the project equips maritime officers, ship and port operators, seafarers, Flag State Implementation officers (FSIOs) ,Port State Control officers (PSCO) and other key stakeholders with the skills needed to implement the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy.

Supporting National Action Plans for Maritime Decarbonization

The SMART-C GHG Project supports participating countries in developing evidence-based National Action Plans (NAPs) to facilitate the implementation of the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy. Through technical assistance, policy guidance and emissions data, the project helps countries identify national priorities, strengthen regulatory frameworks, and develop practical measures to reduce GHG emissions from shipping.

Strengthening GHG Data Collection and Analysis for Informed Policymaking

The SMART-C GHG Project supports participating countries in establishing and strengthening national digital systems for collecting, managing and analysing GHG emissions data from international shipping, ports and domestic vessels and other related sectors. This would help countries establish reliable emissions baselines, monitor progress, identify emission reduction opportunities, and develop evidence-based maritime policies that support the implementation of the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy.

Promoting Regional Cooperation and Knowledge Sharing across ASEAN

The SMART-C GHG Project strengthens regional cooperation by facilitating the exchange of knowledge, experiences and lessons learned among the Philippines, Viet Nam and other ASEAN Member States. Through regional workshops, technical dialogues and collaborative activities, the project enhances institutional partnerships, promotes the sharing of best practices, and supports the coordinated implementation of the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy, contributing to a more effective and harmonized regional approach to maritime decarbonization.

The SMART-C GHG Project strengthens regional cooperation by facilitating the exchange of knowledge, experiences and lessons learned among the Philippines, Viet Nam and other ASEAN Member States. Through regional workshops, technical dialogues and collaborative activities, the project enhances institutional partnerships, promotes the sharing of best practices, and supports the coordinated implementation of the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy, contributing to a more effective and harmonized regional approach to maritime decarbonization.

Project Coordination Unit