Methanol Institute outlines new initiatives in maritime sector

The Methanol Institute has disclosed a new partnership that will address maritime safety, environmental protection, research into the use of methanol as a marine fuel, pilot projects in Saudi Arabia, and training and knowledge exchange.

“With Saudi Arabia’s maritime sector growing under Vision 2030, and the Gulf emerging as a hub for methanol, partnerships like this are key to advancing cleaner fuels and a more sustainable shipping future,” the Methanol Institute stated.

The association has been broadening its international presence. Over the past year, it has added several new members, including the technical division of Angola’s NVS Energy Industria, NVS Commodities Materials and Services, Dutch geo-data solutions provider Fugro, India’s Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) in Kandla, Switzerland-based renewable energy producer Axpo Group, and U.S. technology company Emvolon.

The Methanol Institute also joined with ECSA, FuelsEurope, eFuel Alliance, EWAB, and HydrogenEurope to establish the Clean Maritime Fuels Platform. The initiative seeks to improve dialogue between shipping stakeholders and fuel producers.

In addition, the association was granted consultative status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), providing it with the opportunity to contribute directly to the development of international shipping regulations.