An IMO working group in London this week discussed measures to reduce greenhouse gases emissions from shipping, including the possibility of creating a tax on carbon.

The IMO has committed to approving in April a measure to reduce emissions at the Marine Environment Protection Committee, but not necessarily a carbon tax.

"We need a redistribution system that prioritises vulnerable and poor nations," Allen Kisi Ofea, representative of the Solomon Islands, told AFP.

A carbon tax would make it more expensive for companies to emit greenhouse gases, encouraging them to curtail emissions, and these funds could be redistributed to poorer nations.

Without this, "we risk that we will be left behind," he added.

Countries that oppose the tax argue the system would increase the cost of goods and contribute to global food insecurity.

But among those in favour of the carbon levy, opinions differ on what price should be set.

Some propose just $20 per tonne of carbon dioxide, the European Union has proposed $100, and the 6PAC+ nations (a coalition of Pacific, Caribbean and African island nations) propose $150.

According to University College London research, a price starting from $150 "could generate sufficient revenue to support both the energy transition and ensure a just and equitable transition for affected communities".

"It is a matter of survival," warned Lloyd Fikiasi, representative of Vanuatu.

Fikiasi, and other 6PAC+ representatives, have expressed fears that some of their islands will disappear in coming years, a result of climate events such as rising sea levels and more intense cyclones.

The rise in ocean levels is caused by the increase in average global surface temperature, which is driven by greenhouse gas emissions.