In an effort to decarbonize the shipping industry, the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) recently hosted the Athens Methanol Forum: Unlocking the Value of Methanol. The event brought together a diverse range of industry players to explore the potential of methanol as a marine fuel.

Market Trends for Alternative Fuels

ABS specialists shared insights on market trends for alternative fuels, which have gained increasing attention as the shipping industry seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. While there are several alternatives to traditional marine fuels, such as liquefied natural gas and hydrogen, methanol has emerged as a promising solution due to its practical benefits.

Advantages of Methanol as a Marine Fuel

Compared to other alternative fuels, methanol has several advantages, including ease of storage and handling, and a pathway to carbon neutrality through green methanol. Methanol also offers a tank-to-wake carbon intensity reduction, making it a viable option for reducing the shipping industry’s environmental impact.

Emerging Technologies Supporting Methanol’s Scale-Up

In addition to practical benefits, there are several emerging technologies that support the scale-up of methanol as a marine fuel. The Athens Methanol Forum featured presentations from industry leaders such as George Drossos from MAN, Dimitris Koliaroudakis from Technava, and Stamatis Achillas from Wartsila, who shared insights on existing and emerging technologies that support the adoption of methanol.

Regulatory Framework Around Methanol

While the adoption of alternative fuels requires significant investments from the industry, there are also regulatory frameworks to consider. The Athens Methanol Forum featured ABS specialists who provided insights on the current regulatory framework around methanol and the potential for future regulations that could impact the industry’s adoption of alternative fuels.

Panel Discussion on the Viability, Advantages, and Roadblocks in the Methanol Pathway

The Athens Methanol Forum concluded with a panel discussion on the viability, advantages, and roadblocks in the methanol pathway. The panel, which included Rafik Ammar from the Methanol Institute, Loukas Barbaris from Safe Bulkers, and Panos Kourkountis from Sea Traders, explored the potential of methanol as a marine fuel and the challenges that must be overcome to achieve widespread adoption.

In conclusion, the Athens Methanol Forum highlighted the potential of methanol as a promising solution for the shipping industry’s decarbonization goals. With practical benefits, emerging technologies, and regulatory frameworks to support its adoption, methanol has the potential to become a key player in the transition to a more sustainable shipping industry.