The ISO 14060 standard, as the first independent international standard for verifying net zero goals, is nearing its final stage. This standard completed its public consultation phase on September 9, 2026, and the final text is expected to be published soon. The impact of this standard on the shipping industry is significant, as it will subject claims related to net zero goals to documented evidence.
New Challenges for Companies
While many companies are seeking to announce net zero goals, the main challenge lies in their readiness for verification of these goals by independent entities. In 2023, nearly 6,000 companies announced climate transition plans aligned with 1.5 degrees Celsius, but only 140 companies were able to respond to all 21 CDP validation indicators. This indicates a large gap between announcing a goal and the ability to provide evidence for it.
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The ISO 14060 standard seeks to bridge this gap and make plans comparable. Although two companies may announce the same year for achieving net zero goals, one may have mid-term plans and financial evidence, while the other may only provide an empty promise.
Transformation in the Shipping Industry
The shipping industry is currently leading in terms of data related to ships compared to many sectors. The IMO data collection systems and carbon intensity indicators have integrated monitoring of intensity, carbon costs, and fuel selection into operations. However, this data alone cannot be considered a credible corporate transition plan. Companies may have rich data at the ship level, but still lack sufficient evidence at the corporate transition level.
For example, Maersk is highlighted due to sufficient evidence, including approved SBTi goals and significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. However, even with a documented pathway, this company still relies on physical conditions that it cannot create alone.
The ISO 14060 standard also creates verification pressures from both sides; on one hand, corporate claims and on the other, capital providers. These developments indicate that transition planning is gradually moving from brochure pages to contracts and procurement processes, where claims turn into real consequences.
With increasing verification pressures, companies must pay more attention to how they manage information related to greenhouse gas emissions and their suppliers. As a result, the ISO 14060 standard can serve as a key tool for assessing and improving transparency in the shipping industry.
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