Methanol Institute gets consultative role at the IMO

Methanol-focussed trade body Methanol Institute (MI) has been granted official non-government consultative status by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

IMAGE: Methanol bunkering operation at Ulsan port in Korea. Itochu

This status will allow MI to contribute technical insights and policy recommendations on methanol-based technology adoption in the shipping sector.

According to the IMO, organisations applying for consultative status must demonstrate relevant expertise and the ability to meaningfully support its regulatory work.

MI members include shipping companies like Cosco Shipping, Maersk, Mitsui O.S.K Lines, Mediterranean Shipping Company and suppliers such as ABEL Energy, Axpo, Methanex and HIF Global, among others.

Methanol is one of the front-runners as a potential future alternative to conventional fuels in shipping’s green fuel transition. There are currently 97 methanol-capable vessels in operation and another 366 on order for delivery towards 2030, according to DNV.

“Having consultative status means our industry can contribute with practical, operational knowledge from producers and suppliers to shipowners, engine manufacturers and technology providers already working with methanol at sea,” MI said in a social media post.

By Konica Bhatt

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