We believe collaboration and convergence
will pave the way for new paths
toward a decarbonized future.

As we reflect on the past three years, it is evident that the Covid-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in society, the economy, politics, culture, and daily life. Beyond the pandemic, the urgent need for decarbonization due to climate change has become more pressing.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the EU are reinforcing regulations in response to this global trend, with the EEXI and CII regulations as the starting point for accelerated action.

The revised IMO GHG reduction strategy expected to be agreed upon at the 80^th MEPC meeting will increase the level of ambition, leading to accelerated and expanded orders for alternative-fueled ships. With new orders for conventional fossil-fueled ships set to disappear, it is crucial to consider the economic feasibility of alternative fuels for the sustainable growth of shipping companies. The applicability of each fuel, taking into account ship type/size/route and safety, is also an essential consideration. These are complex and multi-faceted decisions. For example, when assessing the safe use of alternative fuels, there are many things to consider such as leakage, flammability, and toxicity. KR is committed to supporting our clients in understanding these issues. This edition of the KR Decarbonization Magazine explores some of these areas in more depth.

Achieving and maintaining carbon neutrality in the maritime industry requires us to look beyond alternative fuel use on ships and consider the upstream chain of fuel production facilities, supply infrastructure, and bunkering systems. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) and CO₂ carrier technologies are among the solutions highlighted.

KR is involved with several initiatives in this area. Recently, “KR GEARs” was upgraded and a CII Simulator function was included to support the decarbonization response of shipping companies. KR has also held technical conferences on "Small Modular Reactor (SMR) for Ships" and "Marine CCUS Technology" for maritime carbon neutrality. This follows the successful conclusion of the conference on “Green Technology and Maritime Decarbonization with KR” at the end of 2022. Our new issue of the KR Decarbonization Magazine offers expert insights into these key issues and more.

While there is uncertainty surrounding decarbonization, we believe collaboration and convergence will pave the way for new paths toward a decarbonized future. We hope you find inspiration in our magazine this spring.