UK Chamber of Shipping Report

The UK Chamber of Shipping has published an important new report, “Alternative Fuels: Building the Safety Evidence Base”, bringing together insights from shipowners, operators, fuel suppliers, classification societies, ports, academia and industry associations, including IBIA.

The report examines the safety considerations associated with five key fuel pathways: biofuels, methanol, hydrogen, ammonia and battery energy storage systems. It is the result of a year-long collaborative effort under the Safety of Alternative Fuels Working Group (SAFWG), which developed preliminary risk assessments and identified common themes across emerging marine fuel technologies.

The findings reinforce that while alternative fuels will play a central role in shipping’s decarbonisation journey, safety, operational readiness and regulatory clarity must develop alongside technological progress. The report highlights recurring challenges such as crew training, emergency response planning, fuel handling procedures, material compatibility and port preparedness.

Importantly, the initiative demonstrates the value of industry-wide collaboration in building a shared understanding of the opportunities and risks associated with the energy transition. By bringing together practical operational experience and technical expertise, the report provides a useful foundation for future discussions on fuel safety, standards and regulation.

IBIA was pleased to contribute to this collaborative effort and welcomes initiatives that support the safe and responsible adoption of alternative fuels across the global shipping industry. The report offers valuable insights for bunker suppliers, shipowners, ports and all stakeholders involved in the transition to a lower-carbon future.

Download the report here,