Achieving the IMO’s goals on greenhouse gas emissions will require a shift in how vessels are fuelled and propelled. Amongst the options available to shipowners on meeting the IMO targets, lower or zero carbon fuels are likely to be a popular option. 

In this section we will look the different types of fuels which may be used to achieve these targets. 

Alternatives to fossil fuels

Despite the need for urgent action, there is some inertia in the industry. This is largely caused by the lack of clarity and direction about which alternative to adopt and the need for greater detail on the potential safety, cost of implementation, the emissions efficiency of each fuel on both ship and shore, and the ‘well-to-wake’ carbon impact.

Currently, the shipping industry is considering several alternative fuels as replacements for conventional fuels, all with their own unique set of benefits – and challenges.