THE INTERNATIONAL Maritime Organization plans to implement a pilot green shipping corridor cluster project proposed by Lloyd’s Register Maritime Decarbonisation Hub.
LR MDH submitted its proposal as part of the Singapore-IMO NextGEN challenge held during Singapore Maritime Week. It won the inaugural award for the challenge.
The project involves developing a route-based action plan methodology based on the so-called Silk Alliance.
The Silk Alliance initiative is a “green corridor cluster initiative” focused on a fleet predominately bunkering in Singapore and wider Asia.
Lloyd’s Register said the alliance identified a feasibility scenario for in scope container ships.
The IMO said an initial batch of containerships would be identified to participate in the project.
“The LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub’s green corridor methodology provides a clear focus in estimating the critical mass needed to drive much-needed infrastructure investments, such as port and fuel production infrastructure for alternative fuels, in preparation for shipping’s decarbonisation,” Lloyd’s Register CEO Nick Brown said.
IMO secretary-general Kitack Lim said trials and pilot projects would enable the maritime industry to take best practices on board.
“IMO is supporting this through various projects, in partnership with many stakeholders,” Mr Lim said.
“I am pleased that through the Singapore-IMO NextGEN Connect project we have seen exciting proposals presented. I congratulate the winner and I look forward to receiving the results of the trials at IMO, to share with the member states.”
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, the Norwegian Ministry of Climate and Environment and the Maritime Technology Cooperation Centre Asia and the IMO evaluated the submissions.
MPA chief executive Teo Eng Dih congratulated LR MDH for its winning proposal.
“This proposal reaffirms the pragmatic and inclusive approach needed to accelerate the adoption of low and zero-emission solutions through the development of green and digital shipping corridors.
“MPA looks forward to collaborating with Lloyd’s Register, IMO and other partners to implement the proposal to help decarbonise the maritime industry.”
And Charles Haskell, director of the LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub, said the pilot project aims incentivise the development of alternative fuel supply infrastructure in developing countries.
“Once we are able to implement a successful green corridor within the intra-Asia route, we hope that the spillover effect can provide the methodology and momentum needed for shipping to fulfil its 2050 zero emissions goal.”
