IMO To Solve The Conondrum Of Safely Operating On Alternative Fuels

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  • Efforts were made to create a regulatory framework for the safe handling of alternative fuels at MSC 108 meeting.
  • A summary list of fuels and technologies that could support the reduction of GHG emissions from ships was outlined.

The 108th session of IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 108) took place from 15 to 24 May 2024, where efforts were made to create a regulatory framework for the safe handling of alternative fuels, reports Safety4sea.

Uptake of zero or near-zero GHG emission technologies, fuels and/or energy sources

According to IMO, the Committee noted the report of the Correspondence Group on the Development of a Safety Regulatory Framework to Support the Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships Using New Technologies and Alternative Fuels, which was established at MSC 107.

“IMO’s goal of achieving net zero shipping will require the uptake of zero or near-zero GHG emission technologies, fuels and/or energy sources. Suitable provisions will be needed to ensure the safe operation of these new technologies and alternative fuels on ships,” said the Organization.

The report outlined a summary list of fuels and technologies that could support the reduction of GHG emissions from ships, as well as an assessment of technical aspects, hazards, and risks to ship/shoreside for each of these listed fuels and technologies. Safety obstacles and gaps in existing regulations were also assessed.

The Committee also invited delegations and international organizations to submit further information and proposals to enhance the list and its annexes. Furthermore, the Committee re-established the Correspondence Group and instructed it to develop recommendations to address each of the identified barriers and gaps in current IMO instruments that impede the safe use of an alternative fuel or new technology, and report back to MSC 109 and MSC 110.

The Committee endorsed the agreement by the HTW Sub-Committee to proceed with the development of training provisions for seafarers on ships using alternative fuels.

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Source: Safety4sea