CIMAC calls for neutral legal framework to boost research

Only technologically-neutral rule-making will be able to attract the necessary investments worldwide, while a consensus on finely focussed R&D activities with support from regulatory bodies to enable funding is also required, said the organisation.

“To support the development of technical solutions in the medium and long-term, an efficient cross sector R&D framework must be defined and supported without delay,” stressed CIMAC.

Look to long-term

It noted the technical solutions currently available do not meet all types of shipping needs.

Short-term measures should “focus on efficiency improvements and take account of existing and close to market-ready technical solutions, such as LNG retrofits or system optimisation”. They must specifically focus on the least efficient ships, and part of a range of solutions for shipowners.

Current changes such as the switch to LNG are necessary and helpful, but should only be considered as bridging technologies, if they are still fossil-fuel based.

Hydrogen and carbon-neutral (bio or synthetic) fuels are nowhere near being competitive solutions.

Other ideas such as innovative ship design and broader digitalisation call for a wide scope of parties to be involved.

CIMAC said the necessary developments require co-operation between all stakeholders including ship owners, shipbuilders, engine manufacturers, equipment manufacturers, system integrators and Classification Societies.