About

The Poseidon Principles are a framework for financial institutions to assess and disclose the climate alignment of shipping portfolios. They are based on four principles that establish a common methodology for transparently tracking progress towards maritime decarbonisation: assessment, accountability, enforcement, and transparency.

Learn about how the Poseidon Principles were developed.

The methodology is aligned with the IMO’s greenhouse gas strategy set in 2023, which aims for net-zero emissions from international shipping by or around 2050. While climate alignment is the only metric considered currently, the framework is intended to evolve over time to include other issues where the collective influence of financial institutions can help improve the international shipping industry. Some members may choose to go beyond the global baselines established by the Poseidon Principles, which offer significant benefits to members, the global maritime industry, and society as a whole.

The Poseidon Principles were launched in June 2019 with eleven signatories. Currently, there are 36 signatories, representing just about three-quarters of the global ship finance portfolio. In December 2025, the Poseidon Principles expanded to include associate members and encourage all financial institutions, whether they lend on a secured or unsecured basis, to join the existing members in this pivotal moment as associate members. In May 2026, this membership was further expanded to include marine insurers. There are five associate members.

Interested in using climate alignment to track portfolio progress?

Many types of financial institutions with business activities related to international shipping are eligible to use the four principles to track portfolio progress, including secured lenders, ECAs, private equity firms, hedge funds, marine insurers, brokers, and more. There are two types of membership:

• Signatories commit to implementing the principles in their internal policies, procedures, and standards and to work with their clients and partners on an ongoing basis to implement the Poseidon Principles. Signatories are required to annually report the climate alignment of their shipping portfolios.
• Associate members show their support for the Poseidon Principles and are encouraged to use the methodology in their own reports, but are not subject to any formal reporting requirements. Associate members in the marine insurance sector can report on a voluntary basis.

Learn more about membership eligibility.