The Methane Abatement in Maritime Innovation Initiative (MAMII) has sent an open letter to the European Union urging it to implement clear regulations and ramp up investment in methane cutting technologies.
MAMII claimed that these measures could position Europe as a global leader in clean shipping, while boosting economic growth.
According to the letter, LNG is the main source of methane as a fuel, with a strong potential future for bio-methane and e-methane.
However, while LNG is seen as an important pathway in shipping’s de-carbonisation drive, unregulated methane emissions threaten to undermine its climate benefits.
The EU’s Clean Industrial Deal is aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of its industries, while advancing environmental sustainability. Due to be officially unveiled tomorrow, this plan seeks to support EU industries in navigating global competition and economic challenges through a series of targeted measures.
MAMII warned that without immediate action, Europe risks falling behind in developing bio-methane and e-methane – two cleaner alternatives that could leverage existing ships’ engines and port infrastructure.
The call to action is focused on two key areas:
Clear regulations
- The EU should set rules that drive methane reductions through both incentives and penalties. Incentives should support investment in low-methane engines and proven mitigation technologies, accounting for differences in machinery efficiency.
- Not all methane is equal – its carbon footprint depends on its source. Suppliers that cut, measure, and report emissions should be rewarded, with regulators adjusting default values to reflect real improvements.
Investment
- Europe can lead in methane abatement and measurement technology, benefiting both industry and climate goals. EU funding should focus on scaling and commercialising these solutions.
“The EU has a real chance to shape the future of clean shipping. With the right policies and investment, Europe can cut methane emissions, develop new fuel markets, and create jobs in a growing industry. But if we delay, we risk falling behind as others set the standards and reap the benefits,” said Panos Mitrou, MAMII chair.
Launched in September, 2022 by Safetytech Accelerator, MAMII has brought together shipping companies, technology firms, and energy concerns to advance methane measurement and mitigation.
This initiative now includes more than 20 leading shipping and energy companies as anchor partners and a tech ecosystem of over 100 companies, with over half being based in the EU.
