The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has launched a new data collection system to help steer improvements to the new Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII). 

CII is an energy efficiency rating system developed by the International Maritime Organization for merchant ships over 5,000 gross tonnes. It came into effect on 1 January 2023 and is currently in an experience building phase until 1 January 2026, with a formal review running in parallel.

The system rates a ship’s carbon intensity on a scale from A (the best) to E (the worst). A poor rating (D or E) may require corrective action is taken. 

During the Marine Environment Protection Meeting (MEPC80) in July, the IMO extended an invitation to Member States and international organizations to collect data and submit information and proposals. In response, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has created a system that allows shipowners and managers to submit data, such as fuel consumption, transport work, and trial metrics. This data will help in assessing the fairness and effectiveness of the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) system and provide valuable input for its improvement to the IMO.

“At the International Chamber of Shipping we wish to engage constructively to the current experience building phase of the CII review, to ensure that the system is fit-for-purpose and effective. The ICS Data Collection System offers shipowners and managers the opportunity to contribute data that will improve the rating system in the future,” said Chris Waddington, Technical Director of the International Chamber of Shipping and lead on the ICS CII Data Collection System.

The ICS is encouraging shipowners and stakeholders to participate to help contribute to the development of a fair and successful CII rating system.

“We encourage shipowners to utilise the system in order to offer first-hand insights into what works well and possible challenges within the system. This data will be shared with the IMO and keep dialogues open for how best to meet our 2030, 2040 and 2050 net zero carbon emissions targets,” Waddington said.