Optimal selection of sustainable maritime fuels meeting the 2023 IMO strategy on reduction of GHG emissions from ships

The maritime industry transports about 80% of global trade goods, which plays an important role in promoting global economic growth 1. However, ships use mainly fossil fuels and thus emit greenhouse gases (GHG) into the environment. At MEPC 80 July 2023, the International Maritime Organization adopted the 2023 IMO Strategy for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships 2, 3. With vision, “IMO remains committed to reducing GHG emissions from international shipping and, as a matter of urgency, aims to phase them out as soon as possible, while promoting, in the context of this Strategy, a just and equitable transition.” And, the ambition is to achieve zero greenhouse gas emissions before 2050. The key solution to achieve this goal is to switch to clean, zero-emission fuels. Therefore, the author will analyze potential alternative fuels through nine important criteria in this study. From there, we propose potential alternative fuels for Vietnam's maritime industry. The article is expected to be the foundation for further research, contributing to the sustainable development of Vietnam's maritime industry to meet the obligations of member countries of Annex VI, MARPOL, and implement the Government's commitments at COP26.