Wind propulsion more vital than ever amid geopolitical setbacks at IMO talks, says BAR Technologies

Amid growing uncertainty around global emissions policy following the Trump administration’s formal withdrawal of the US from climate policy negotiations at the IMO this week, BAR Technologies has issued a call for the global maritime sector to double down on credible, proven solutions such as wind propulsion,

The withdrawal, confirmed via diplomatic communication to other IMO delegations, expressed strong opposition to the economic measures under discussion, including the proposed levy on greenhouse gas emissions and a mandatory fuel standard. The US statement described the IMO’s net zero ambitions as economically burdensome and reliant on what it characterised as “unproven fuels” while warning of potential retaliatory measures against any charges imposed on US-flagged vessels.

Reacting to these developments, BAR Technologies’ CEO John Cooper (pictured) stressed that the industry must not allow political turbulence to derail progress towards shipping’s climate goals. He stated that wind propulsion remains an essential, deployable technology that can provide immediate and scalable emissions reductions, regardless of the regulatory headwinds.

“This latest development only sharpens the industry’s need to prioritise solutions that are already available and proven in operation,” Cooper said. “Wind propulsion is a tried and tested method of reducing fuel consumption and emissions. It is inherently zero-emission, freely available, and requires no external supply chain. With WindWings®, we’ve demonstrated that wind-assisted propulsion solution is not a theoretical concept but a working solution that can deliver commercial and environmental benefits right now.”

BAR Technologies has long championed wind as a central pillar of shipping’s decarbonisation strategy, particularly as fuel markets remain volatile and regulatory alignment proves difficult. With vessels already operating with WindWings® installed, the company believes the maritime sector has a clear opportunity to take ownership of its decarbonisation pathway, using technologies that are resilient to the kind of geopolitical shifts currently playing out on the global stage.

As the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee continues its high-stakes negotiations this week in London, BAR Technologies urges policymakers and industry leaders alike to acknowledge the unique potential of wind propulsion, not only as a bridge to cleaner fuels but as a cornerstone of energy transition in its own right.

Wind remains the only energy source that can be captured and used directly onboard a ship without mining, refining, bunkering, or storing. In a time when consensus is difficult and timelines are tight, wind propulsion stands out as an immediate, inclusive and scalable solution.

WindWings® are built on BAR Technologies’ patented three-element wing design, delivering 2.5 times more lift than traditional single-element configurations, reducing CO2 emissions by an average of 4.7t per day per wing This advanced design provides greater thrust and adaptability, enabling consistent performance across global trade routes. By unlocking the full potential of wind, a limitless, natural and zero-emission resource, WindWings® elevate wind from a supplementary aid to a primary propulsion method, offering ship operators a practical and immediate pathway to reduce fossil fuel dependency while enhancing operational resilience.