Methanol Institute steps into green marine fuel regulation with IMO status

In The Netherlands, Offshore Energy reports the International Maritime Organization granted consultative status to the Methanol Institute, empowering the trade association to offer expertise directly in IMO’s regulatory discussions. With this status, MI can now attend and contribute to IMO meetings, participating actively in shaping the industry’s approach to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

The IMO’s recognition of MI underscores the increasing acceptance of methanol as a viable low-carbon alternative to traditional marine fuels. Gregory Dolan, MI’s CEO, welcomed the development, noting the timely nature of their inclusion amidst the industry’s ongoing shift to greener energy sources. This move comes as the maritime sector intensifies efforts to slash its hefty carbon footprint, exploring robust regulatory frameworks for the adoption of low-carbon fuels like methanol.

MI’s engagement with the IMO will focus on setting standards for methanol’s safe use in shipping—from bunkering to crew training and vessel design. Their work aims to foster broader regulatory and market support for methanol. The institute has already contributed significantly to this area, notably with its 2020 inclusion in the revised International Code for Gas-Fueled Ships and its ongoing advocacy and educational efforts around methanol’s role in sustainable shipping.

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