An international seminar explored the latest developments in biofuels in the maritime sector, including the challenges and opportunities related to using marine fuels made from plants, waste oils or agricultural residues to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from shipping.
The IMO Future Fuels and Technology Project organized the seminar at IMO headquarters in London (12 February), with the aim of sharing information and insights related to alternative fuels and emerging technologies to support policymakers in their efforts to reduce GHG emissions from ships. The event was purely informative and not intended for policy negotiations.
Around 700 participants from IMO Member States, industry, academia and international organizations attended in person and virtually, while more than 1,300 additional viewers followed the live broadcast online.
Moderated by Dr. Roberta Cenni, Head of Biofuels at the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, sessions examined three main aspects:
- The state of play for the use of biofuels in shipping
- The production, certification and market dynamics of different biofuel pathways
- Onboard experience in the use of biofuels.
Speakers highlighted both the potential and the challenges of biofuels in maritime decarbonization, including sustainability considerations, supply dynamics, engine compatibility and onboard safety. Case studies of biofuel use were presented from Brazil, Indonesia, Türkiye and the United States.
Closing the event, the Director of IMO's Marine Environment Division Mr. David Osborn said that further technical seminars are planned. A participant survey immediately after the event identified ammonia, LNG and methanol as priority topics for future sessions.
The IMO Future Fuels and Technology Project is a partnership between the Government of the Republic of Korea and IMO, aiming to support GHG emissions reduction from international shipping by promoting the uptake of future fuels and technology.
This was the third technical seminar organized under project, following previous seminars covering onboard carbon capture and storage (OCCS) and the energy transition of global shipping.
- Watch a recording of the event on YouTube
- Download presentations from the event page
