During the 2024 GREEN4SEA Singapore Forum, Capt. Yves Vandenborn, FNI, Executive Board member, The Nautical Institute, offered a presentation that provided an update on the Green Curriculum project that the Nautical Institute is currently involved with.
Currently, there is extremely limited data on the operational use of various alternative fuels. Although some trials have been conducted on methanol and ammonia, comprehensive operational data remains scarce. Despite this, the industry needs to develop a training syllabus and prepare seafarers to use these fuels in the future, which presents a significant challenge.
Initiatives and partnerships in alternative fuel training
Fortunately, numerous trials are underway. Major companies like Maersk are conducting their own trials, and the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonization (GCMD) in Singapore is also setting up trials.
These efforts may be promising, but it is important to keep in mind that the novelty of these fuels introduces substantial operational risks that seafarers are not accustomed to managing. I was a gas tanker Master with extensive experience in ammonia tankers. While ammonia is familiar to me, using it as a fuel presents a different challenge. Unfortunately, the industry is extremely slow to adapt to these changes.
On a positive note, the review of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) is in progress. This review will eventually provide a baseline framework for training. However, by the time it is completed, accepted, and implemented, it could take up to ten years. We need a solution now.
While LNG is currently the most readily available alternative fuel, significant work is being done with methanol and ammonia, including specific projects and research initiatives. Hydrogen and fuel cells are also emerging on the horizon, but behind the horizon lies nuclear power. Nuclear power is an option slowly gaining attention. More and more organizations are beginning to seriously consider nuclear energy as a maritime fuel or a provider of energy to generate green fuels. Nuclear has great potential, albeit much further down the line.
Moreover, the International Safety Management (ISM) Code states that ship owners must ensure their crews are well-trained for all onboard situations. While the STCW sets the minimum standards, it is ultimately the operator’s responsibility to ensure proper training.
Generally, the scale of the task is immense. Approximately 800,000 seafarers need training to handle alternative fuels. Ships are coming online with the capability to use these fuels, highlighting the urgent need for preparedness during this transition.
The role of the Nautical Institute and collaborative efforts
How does the Nautical Institute fit into this evolving landscape? One of the ways in which we are involved is through the Just Transition Task Force, a collaboration among the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), and the World Maritime University, funded by Lloyd’s Register.
The task force recently released a study outlining the curriculum for alternative fuels at the STCW level. They are now preparing to submit a formal proposal to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) by the end of this year or early next year.
Additionally, the Maritime Technologies Forum has issued guidelines for updating Safety Management Systems (SMS) to address the requirements for operating alternative fuels on board. These guidelines identify gaps in current SMS and provide ship owners with instructions on how to update their manuals accordingly.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has advised that all training should build on the existing International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or Other Low-Flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code), with additions specific to various alternative fuels. However, maritime academies currently lack dedicated training programs for these fuels.
In addition, the Maritime, and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) announced the establishment of the Maritime Energy Training Facility during Singapore Maritime Week. This center, which includes twenty-two partners, such as the Singapore Maritime Academy, has already launched its first training course focused on methanol.
Simultaneously, the Nautical Institute offers a General Industry Standard Familiarization Course for Alternative Fuels, an online two-day course. The Nautical Institute is also developing its own standards. Whilst we are collaborating with the Just Transition Task Force on the STCW revision, the Nautical Institute does not provide STCW courses. Instead, it is creating an additional syllabus to address future training needs and is currently awaiting feedback from several manufacturers before finalizing and marketing the course.
Looking forward
As we move forward, it’s encouraging to see numerous initiatives already underway. Singapore, notably, is making significant strides in preparing seafarers for the transition to alternative fuels. Singapore’s proactive approach puts the country ahead of the curve, ensuring that comprehensive seafarer training programs are in place.
Looking ahead to the STCW review, there’s anticipation regarding the recommendations it will offer regarding training for alternative fuels. This review offers a chance to set clear guidelines and standards that will influence the future of maritime training globally.
Collaboration as a driving force for change
Overall, the importance of focusing on the knowledge and skills of seafarers cannot be overstated. With ships set to come online soon, there’s a sense of urgency to ensure that seafarers are adequately prepared. This requires collaboration not only within the industry but also with various stakeholders and partners.
Working together toward a common standard is essential. Fragmentation could hinder the industry’s ability to adapt effectively. Therefore, Collaborative efforts are essential to align training initiatives and establish a unified approach to prepare seafarers for upcoming challenges.
Above article has been edited from Capt. Yves Vandenborn’s presentation during the 2024 GREEN4SEA Singapore Forum.
Explore more by watching his video presentation here below
The views presented are only those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of SAFETY4SEA and are for information sharing and discussion purposes only.
