Complying with FuelEU regulations, says Columbia Group

Solutions must be in place to help ship owners navigating the complex challenges of complying with the new FuelEU Maritime regulations, said Columbia Group.

With the introduction of FuelEU Maritime restrictions, which will enforce a 2 per cent reduction in carbon intensity levels on vessels starting next year, ship owners and managers operating in and out of EU waters face a significant challenge. This is a pressing issue that must be addressed within the next six months.

These regulations are part of the European Union’s Fit for 55 directives, aiming for a 55 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions within the EU maritime sector by 2030. The rules mandate a gradual decrease in the greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity of fuels used by the shipping industry. The reduction begins modestly at 2 per cent in 2025 and escalates to a substantial 80 per cent by 2050.

To aid ship owners and managers in navigating this intricate regulatory landscape, the Columbia Group has unveiled a comprehensive one-stop-shop platform.

This innovative tool assists companies in devising long-term strategies to meet new emission targets while ensuring accurate reporting of data such as fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, and distance travelled. Leveraging advanced technology and AI, the platform streamlines these processes, delivering precise and efficient solutions that adapt to the ever-evolving regulatory environment.

Philippos Ioulianou, Director of Energy and Renewables at Columbia Group, emphasised the importance of early preparation. He said that “These new restrictions are going to have a big impact for owners and managers and it’s important they look at what measures they are going to need to take to comply with the regulations and to avoid hefty fines,” adding that “at Columbia Group, we believe that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand.”

In parallel, EmissionLink, a pioneer in environmental technology, has launched a platform designed to alleviate the pressure on companies navigating these changes. This platform offers transparency in managing the entire fuel life cycle, from bunker supply to consumption and emissions. It can collect, clean, analyse, and forecast emissions data. Clients using this platform can be confident in having a dependable partner to help craft long-term green strategies.

Ioulianou further highlighted the platform’s capabilities. “We will be able to not only help our clients’ put measures in place to reduce their carbon intensity levels but we can also handle inputting and analysing the data as well.”

“Our mission is to empower the shipping industry with the tools and knowledge they need to achieve their environmental goals while maintaining competitive advantage. Through continuous innovation and dedicated support, we are committed to driving the global transition to a low-carbon economy,” he concluded.