The IMO assessed ammonia as a marine fuel alternative to cut shipping emissions during a seminar on September 17, 2026.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has evaluated the use of ammonia as an alternative ship fuel in the context of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in maritime transport. At a technical seminar held on September 17, 2026, at IMO's headquarters in London, developments in ammonia fuel technologies, production and supply infrastructure, emissions control, as well as safety and environmental risks were discussed.
Approximately 800 participants, including representatives from member states, intergovernmental organizations, civil society organizations, the maritime sector, and academia, attended the event organized under IMO's Future Fuels and Technology Project (FFT) both in person and online.
The seminar focused on technologies developed for the use of ammonia as fuel in maritime transport. Participants shared their technical knowledge and experiences regarding the production, storage, and refueling of ships with ammonia, as well as the necessary port infrastructure, alongside developments in ammonia-powered ship machinery.
Technologies for controlling emissions that may arise from the use of ammonia were also addressed. Particularly, the management of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions is significant in terms of ammonia's environmental performance.
Although ammonia is a carbon-free fuel, it can lead to significant greenhouse gas emissions depending on the production methods. Therefore, when assessing the environmental impact of the fuel, it is essential to consider not only its use on board but also the production and supply chain.
The toxic and corrosive properties of ammonia make safety measures for its use on ships critical. Fuel tanks, piping systems, leak detection, ventilation, crew protection, and emergency interventions are among the primary areas considered in the development of ammonia fuel technologies.
Additionally, the potential effects of ammonia leaks on the marine environment, the safe execution of fuel supply operations, and the establishment of necessary infrastructure in ports were also topics of evaluation during the seminar.
In his opening speech at the seminar, David Osborn, Director of the IMO Marine Environment Division, emphasized the importance of reliable technical information in international discussions regarding alternative fuels. Osborn stated that decisions must be based on solid evidence and highlighted the importance of presenting the capabilities of existing technologies and unresolved technical issues within a common understanding.
The Future Fuels and Technology Project is conducted in collaboration between IMO and South Korea. The project aims to contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions resulting from international maritime transport by supporting the widespread use of alternative fuels and new technologies in the maritime sector.
The event focused on ammonia was the fifth technical seminar held under the project. Previous seminars had addressed onboard carbon capture and storage systems, energy transition in maritime transport, biofuels, and methane-based fuels.
The ongoing work on the use of ammonia as a ship fuel is considered significant for the development of engine technologies, the establishment of international safety regulations, and the preparation of port refueling infrastructure.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
