With the IMO set to vote in October, the debate has intensified. Some stakeholders have called for a pause, questioning the availability and scalability of future fuels. Laurence Odfjell responded by emphasizing that waiting for “perfect” solutions risks wasting time the planet does not have.
“Talk, talk, talk about the future this or the future that. For years now. A sleeping pillow for many because it justifies ‘wait and see.’ This waiting for some silver bullet is overheating our planet. The greenest fuel is the fuel we do not burn. Efficiency matters – it is the best zero-emission fuel,” he said.
Through a series of retrofit projects and efficiency upgrades, Odfjell’s chemical tanker fleet has achieved significant reductions in carbon emissions, with investments that paid back quickly and cost-effectively. Laurence Odfjell highlighted that combining efficiency with sustainable drop-in fuels such as biofuels and biomethane provides a practical and compliant pathway to net zero by 2050.
Industry voices such as Bunker Holding have echoed this position, stating that the IMO deal is essential to accelerate the development and uptake of green fuels.
“We view the ambitious requirements as a necessary driver for the production and uptake of green fuels. There is no doubt that crucial work lies ahead in the detailed guidelines, but this important work can only move forward after final adoption,” said Maria Skipper, Director of Public Affairs at Bunker Holding.
The IMO will take its decision during the Marine Environment Protection Committee meeting in London from October 14 to 17. Odfjell’s message is clear: efficiency and commitment today will shape a sustainable future for global shipping.
