A Comprehensive Analysis of Risks and Safety Measures in the Maritime Industry’s Transition to Sustainable Fuels

• Main Author: Ribeiro de Lima, Aline
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: English

The global shipping industry, responsible for nearly 90% of world trade, predominantly relies on diesel engines to power its vessels. Larger commercial ships typically use Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO), while smaller vessels like fishing boats and tugs often operate using either Marine Diesel Oil (MDO) or Marine Gas Oil (MGO). HFO, a waste product of the refinery process, remains the prevailing choice for marine engines due to its cost-effectiveness. However, this commonly utilized fuel contains hazardous elements such as Sulphur Oxide (SOX), Nitrogen Oxide (NOX), Carbon Monoxide (CO), and Particulate Matter (PM), posing significant risks to human health, the environment, and climate change by contributing to global warming. Although shipping companies have always been looking for the least expensive fuel to propel their ships, changes in requirements in response to environmental concerns and global warming force the maritime industry to embrace cleaner and more sustainable propulsion fuels. IMO has the goal of reducing the Greenhouse Gases (GHG) emissions by 20% from the shipping industry by the year 2030 and 70% from the shipping industry by the year 2040 relative to 2008. Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) introduced requirements to regulate the air pollution being emitted by ships and aims at a progressive reduction of emissions of GHG, NOX, and SOX. Significant technological and infrastructural advancements are necessary for the implementation of alternative fuels such as Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), methanol, hydrogen, ammonia, and batteries into viable solutions within the maritime sector and comply with future IMO goals and requirements. Green methanol is highlighted as noteworthy alternatives, but their commercial viability depends on further research, investment, and development (Leirvåg & Sørensen, 2023). Analyzing accidents involving hydrocarbons within the maritime industry has played a crucial role in enhancing safety standards, contributing significantly to accident prevention. Despite over half a century of accumulated lessons learned accidents continue to happen today due to a combination of technical, human, and organizational factors further intensified by insufficient regulations. This ongoing trend has led to tragic loss of lives and environmental damage, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures and regulatory frameworks. Emergencies on board ships can pose a multitude o