IMO emissions policy chief Edmund Hughes steps down
Having played a crucial role at the International Maritime Organization during the past decade, dealing with the implementation of the 2020 sulphur cap and the adoption of the initial greenhouse gas strategy, Edmund Hughes leaves the organisation and announces the launch of his own consultancy
Edmund Hughes leaves the International Maritime Organization after 10 years and sets up his own maritime consultancy
THE International Maritime Organization’s emissions policy chief Edmund Hughes is stepping down.
Mr Hughes, who has been the head of the air pollution and energy efficiency of the global regulator since 2013, has overseen the adoption and implementation of some of the most consequential shipping emissions regulations.
He has been at the IMO’s helm in implementing the 0.5% sulphur cap in 2020 and the energy efficiency design index, a tool that requires newbuilding vessels to more efficient than their predecessors. Mr Hughes was also responsible for the landmark initial greenhouse gas strategy adopted in 2018.
In the run-up to the introduction of the 2020 sulphur cap, he was often the organisation’s public face, fielding questions about enforcement, compliance and potential complications that may arise.
Roel Hoenders, a technical officer within the marine environment division hailing from the Netherlands, will become the IMO acting head of air pollution and energy efficiency.
Mr Hughes announced in a LinkedIn post that he is launching a UK-based consultancy called Green Marine Associates. Prior to joining the IMO he worked for the UK Maritime and Coast Agency.