This appeal comes on the heels of the European Commission's publication of the EU’s “Clean Industrial Deal,” which MAMII has praised.
In an open letter, MAMII urges the EU to establish clear regulations and increase investment in methane-reduction technologies. The letter highlights that liquefied natural gas (LNG) is currently the primary source of methane in shipping, though bio-methane and e-methane hold significant potential as future alternatives. While LNG plays a key role in decarbonizing the maritime sector, MAMII stresses that unregulated methane emissions could undermine its climate benefits.
The letter emphasizes the need for the EU to take the lead in regulating and investing in methane abatement. Specifically, MAMII advocates for clear policies, including incentives and penalties to drive emission reductions, and policies that encourage investment in low-methane engines and mitigation technologies.
MAMII’s recommendations call for two main actions:
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Clear Regulations: The EU should implement rules that encourage methane reductions through both incentives and penalties. Incentives should support investment in low-methane engines and established mitigation technologies, with flexibility to account for varying machinery efficiency.
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Investment: Europe has the opportunity to spearhead the development of methane abatement and measurement technologies, which would benefit both the industry and the environment. EU funding should focus on scaling these solutions and bringing them to market.
Panos Mitrou, Chair of MAMII, stressed that “The EU has a real opportunity to shape the future of clean shipping. With the right policies and investment, Europe can significantly cut methane emissions, create new fuel markets, and generate jobs in a rapidly growing sector. However, delaying action risks allowing other regions to set the standards and capture the benefits.”
Launched in September 2022 by Safetytech Accelerator, MAMII brings together major shipping companies, technology firms, and energy companies to advance methane measurement and mitigation. The initiative now includes over 20 shipping and energy giants as anchor partners, along with a tech ecosystem of more than 100 firms, over half of which are based in the EU.
Through pilot programs, MAMII promotes collaboration between shipowners, operators, and technology companies to accelerate the adoption of effective methane reduction solutions.