International Maritime Organisation Focuses on Safety Guidelines for Alternative Bunker Fuels
Key Ideas
- IMO sub-committee is finalizing safety guidelines for ships using hydrogen and ammonia as fuel, showcasing industry's shift towards alternative fuels.
- LNG is leading the transition, but ammonia faces safety standard challenges according to experts like Bjarne Foldager.
- Development of technical provisions for safety of ships using alternative fuels is a crucial focus for the maritime industry.
- The urgent need for the adoption of alternative fuels like hydrogen and ammonia is emphasized by IMO's secretary-general.
The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) sub-committee on carriage of cargoes and containers is in the process of finalizing safety guidelines for ships utilizing alternative bunker fuels like hydrogen and ammonia. IMO secretary-general Arsenio Dominguez highlighted the urgency of the maritime industry to start using these fuels and encouraged the committee to complete the interim guidelines at the current session. While liquefied natural gas (LNG) has gained traction among shipping companies for transitioning away from heavy fuel oil, ammonia and hydrogen are still in the early stages. Bjarne Foldager, from engine manufacturer Man Energy Solutions, raised concerns regarding safety standards for ammonia bunker fuel, particularly emphasizing the need for precise specifications on ventilation systems and toxicity level monitoring sensors. The focus on developing technical provisions for ensuring the safety of ships using alternative fuels reflects the industry's commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact. The efforts to establish guidelines for hydrogen and ammonia usage demonstrate a positive shift towards cleaner and more sustainable fuel options in the maritime sector.