To provide an updated global emissions inventory for 2016–2023 using advanced methodologies to support the IMO’s strategy of achieving net-zero GHG emissions in international shipping by 2050, with interim targets for 2030 and 2040, and to evaluate emission trends including the growing impact of methane from LNG-fueled ships and black carbon to inform future decarbonization policies and strategies.
Sector: Energy
DUAL-FUEL SOLUTIONS FOR NEWBUILD VESSELS
To provide technical and operational guidance on dual-fuel (DF) propulsion systems for newbuild vessels, this report focuses on LNG, methanol, and ammonia as alternative marine fuels amid tightening regulations such as IMO emission targets and EU maritime policies. It analyzes key design, safety, operational, regulatory, and economic factors associated with these fuels, evaluating their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while addressing challenges in fuel infrastructure, handling safety, and compliance. The goal is to help shipowners and stakeholders choose DF solutions that are sustainable, safe, and economically viable in the transition to a low-carbon maritime industry.
SAFE INTRODUCTION OF ALTERNATIVE FUELS (Focus on ammonia and hydrogen as ship fuels)
To support the safe and effective introduction of ammonia and hydrogen as alternative marine fuels by outlining approval processes, safety challenges, and regulatory gaps, and by guiding shipowners, designers, and operators in navigating the current immature regulatory landscape. The report emphasizes the importance of early stakeholder collaboration, risk-based approval, seafarer training, and the development of robust safety systems to enable the maritime industry’s transition toward decarbonization by 2050.
Life cycle assessment of e-/bio- methanol and e-/grey-/blue-ammonia for maritime transport
to provide an independent and comparative assessment of key alternative fuels for the maritime sector, and to evaluate their energy efficiency, greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction potential, production scalability, maturity, and economic competitiveness, in both the short and long term
The cost of capital challenge in delivering a just and equitable transition for shipping
To examine the financial barriers to a just and equitable transition to zero-emission fuels in the shipping sector, this report focuses on the cost of capital as a critical determinant of project feasibility. It compares the levelised costs and investment risks of green ammonia (e-ammonia) production across regions, including both developed and developing countries, to illustrate how disparities in capital access affect global competitiveness. Furthermore, it explores policy instruments—such as grants and concessional finance—that can mitigate investment challenges in low-income countries, thereby supporting the IMO’s objective of a fair transition while enabling the widespread adoption of renewable marine fuels.
Shipping: Fuelling deforestation – Why the IMO’s Global Fuel Standard risks incentivising the worst biofuels
To examine the risks posed by the IMO’s Global Fuel Standard (GFS) in promoting unsustainable biofuels, this report analyzes the potential unintended consequences of incentivizing high-emission biofuels in the absence of clear sustainability criteria. It explores the projected rise in biofuel demand within the international shipping sector under GFS, assesses the greenhouse gas impacts of increased biodiesel use, and highlights the potential for adverse climate and environmental outcomes. The report aims to provide policy recommendations that ensure the GFS supports genuinely sustainable decarbonization pathways and avoids triggering deforestation and other land-use emissions.
Synthetic fuels for shipping
To explores the potential of synthetic fuels, specifically e-methanol, e-methane, and e-diesel, as viable alternatives for shipping decarbonization.
To evaluates their production technologies, sustainability, availability, economic feasibility, and regulatory challenges.
How the IMO’s mid-term measures might shape shipping’s energy choices and transition to e-fuels
To examine how the IMO’s mid-term measures will influence shipping’s transition to e-fuels and decarbonization.
To evaluate different policy scenarios, including fuel standards, levies, and financial incentives, to determine their effectiveness in promoting low-emission fuel adoption.
Safe Onboard Carbon Capture and Storage
To provide a high-level analysis of current and emerging regulatory frameworks related to onboard carbon capture and storage (OCCS), offering insights into the key factors influencing their safe adoption in the maritime sector.
To highlight critical safety, economic, and technological considerations for implementing OCCS, emphasizing their potential implications and requirements for maritime industry stakeholders, including policymakers, technology providers, shipping companies, and port authorities.
Carbon Accounting for Sustainable Biofuels
To examine the challenges related to the carbon intensity of biofuels and emphasize the importance of transparent and science-based carbon accounting for sustainable biofuels. This report seeks to identify the factors contributing to the variability of lifecycle GHG emissions, particularly land use changes, and provides insights into regulatory frameworks across different regions. The goal is to propose pragmatic and performance-based policies that foster continuous improvement and attract necessary investments, thus ensuring the large-scale deployment of biofuels aligns with climate goals.