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.
Sector: Shipping
Biofuels in shipping (2025 Ver.)
To investigate the role of bio-marine fuels in the ongoing decarbonization transition of international shipping, this report examines key challenges such as technological advancements, feedstock scarcity, and supply infrastructure improvements. Global regulatory frameworks, including IMO measures, FuelEU Maritime, and the EU ETS, along with shippers’ Scope 3 emission reduction demands, are driving the commercialization of bio-marine fuels.
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.
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.
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.
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
Green ammonia adoption in shipping: Opportunities and challenges across the fuel supply chain
To investigate the viability of green ammonia as a shipping fuel, exploring its technical, economic, and infrastructural challenges.
To identify barriers and opportunities for its adoption within the shipping sector, focusing on its potential to align with the Paris Agreement goals of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
Availability of E-fuels and E-fuel-capable Vessels from 2027–2030
To assess the market readiness of e-fuels and e-fuel-capable vessels for commercial deployment in the maritime sector between 2027 and 2030. The report seeks to provide insights into the production capacity of e-fuels, the readiness of vessels to use these fuels, and the alignment of these elements to support ZEMBA’s next tender process. The study also aims to identify challenges such as financial barriers and deployment mismatches, offering strategies to accelerate zero-emission technology adoption in shipping.
Preparing Tanker Vessels for Conversion to Green Fuels
To analyse the technical, economic, and environmental impacts of converting tanker vessels to green fuels such as methanol and ammonia. This report aims to assess the readiness level and costs of fuel transition, providing insights to propose optimal design and operational strategies that align with sustainable shipping practices and regulatory requirements.
Maritime Forecast to 2050
To emphasize the necessity of improving energy efficiency and establishing fuel transition strategies to achieve the decarbonization targets of IMO. This report explores methods to maintain the competitiveness of international shipping by 2030, focusing on fuel reduction, digitalization, and carbon capture technologies. Additionally, it examines strategies for expanding related infrastructure and addressing cost increases, providing insights into strategic responses to these challenges.