Greenhouse gases (GHG) and their contribution to climate change are widely discussed and many governmental and intergovernmental bodies are focused on developing methods to reduce emissions. The shipping industry accounts for approximately 2.2% of global greenhouse gas emissions according to estimates presented in the Third IMO GHG Study 2014.

International agreements are necessary if GHG emissions are to be monitored and limited in a global industry like shipping. In 2011, the IMO introduced the first regime for mandatory reduction methods and mechanisms on ships. Similarly, as part of the overall effort to control air pollution, shipping emissions, specifically SOx (oxides of sulphur), NOx (oxides of nitrogen) and particulate matter, have increasingly become an area of focus.

The global merchant fleet consumes an estimated 330 million tonnes of fuel per year, therefore development of alternative fuels for shipping is increasing (DNV, 2014) primarily driven by an anticipated long term increase in costs of oil and especially, the need to reduce harmful emissions from ships, liked to ever tightening legislation. Current avenues for alternative fuel consist of: Liquefied Natural gas (LNG), Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), methanol and ethanol, Di-Methyl Ether (DME), synthetic fuels, biodiesel, biogas, hydrogen and nuclear fuel.

The Marine Fuels and Emissions SIG encompasses issues within the two overarching themes of emissions from shipping, and alternative fuels for shipping. This SIG aims to understand shipping’s role in GHG emissions and air pollution, and the measures being discussed to address them including new regulations, new fuels and associated implementation issues. This SIG will look to identify and address the challenges that lie ahead working with regulatory bodies and industry partners to provide guidance. In bringing together a network of professionals to share experiences and review the knowledge and skills gap across the industry, targeted support can be given to those working in in the sector.

If you are interested in getting involved you can sign up as a corresponding member or register your interest in becoming a member of the committee by contacting .

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