As the European Union prepares to unveil its Clean Industrial Deal on 26 February 2025, the Methane Abatement in Maritime Innovation Initiative (MAMII) has issued an open letter urging the EU to implement clear regulations and ramp up investment in methane-cutting technologies.
MAMII argues these measures could position Europe as a global leader in clean shipping while boosting economic growth. With LNG as the main source of methane as a fuel, there is a strong potential future for bio-menthane and e-methane. While LNG is seen as an important pathway in shipping’s decarbonisation drive, unregulated methane emissions threaten to undermine its climate benefits. MAMII warns that without immediate action, Europe risks falling behind in developing bio-methane and e-methane – two cleaner alternatives that could leverage existing ship engines and port infrastructure.
MAMII’s call to action focuses on two key areas:
- Clear regulations: MAMII believes that 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. Moreover, MAMII points out that 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 could lead in methane abatement and measurement technology, benefiting both industry and climate goals. EU funding should focus on scaling and commercialising these solutions.
Panos Mitrou, Chair of MAMII, said: “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.”
Launched in 2022 by Safetytech Accelerator, MAMII brings together shipping and technology companies with energy suppliers to advance methane measurement and mitigation. The initiative now includes more than 20 shipping and energy companies as anchor partners and a tech ecosystem of over 100 firms, with over half based in the EU. Through pilot programmes, MAMII facilitates collaboration between shipowners, operators, and technology companies to drive the adoption of effective solutions.
Image: Europe should act on methane emissions, says MAMII (source: MAMII)
