PRESS RELEASEMTF unveils landmark framework for holistic
assessment of decarbonization technologies
Key framework position paper locks in first big milestone for the Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) as it
maintains momentum following its launch in April
29.11.2021. London. The Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) has today unveiled a framework designed
to empower decision-makers in shipping to holistically assess and compare decarbonization technologies
and low to zero-emission energy carriers.
The current phase sets out the areas for assessment and comparison and will be built on in the second
phase to identify optimal assessment methodologies. The MTF believes this framework will be particularly
beneficial when industry is researching new technologies for decarbonisation.
The vision of the framework is to provide a shared agreement as to key assessment criteria, while alsoraising awareness of technologies and energy carriers as a result of assessment.
The new framework takes wider sustainability aspects into account, also recognizing that solving the issueof decarbonization should not lead to unacceptable impacts on other areas such as safety, security andeconomic feasibility. In publishing this framework and in line with the collaborative approach to solving
future challenges, MTF welcomes feedback from across the industry on this concept paper.
Identifying the best solutions for long-term application in shipping with no detriment to the planet or society,in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, is a big challenge for the maritime industry. Getting thisdecision-making wrong could lead to non-compliance resulting in stranded assets down the line. The workof the MTF is looking beyond just alternative fuels, and also factors in all relevant decarbonization
technologies and solutions, as well as their production and disposal.
The MTF framework takes into account all criteria relevant to achieving sustainable outcomes including
technology status, environmental sustainability, safety, security, regulations, people, engineering andeconomic feasibility. It can be used for a singular assessment, or for comparison between multiple
technologies or energy carriers. Assessments can also be carried out in a repeatable, consistent way, as
well as to assess a complete system or sub-system.
The framework adopts a Systems Engineering approach that embraces the full lifecycle of technologies
and alternative energy carriers under assessment. A through-life assessment is crucial because a newtechnology or energy carrier may often have lifecycle factors that could inadvertently create other problems
while solving the current one. As such, the framework will provide an enduring model that can be appliedeven beyond today’s focus on emissions, helping to ensure a fleet or vessel’s future competitiveness andcompliance.
Commenting on the new framework, a spokesperson for the MTF said:

“This project is merely the beginning. The paper signals the strategic direction of the MTF’s work to help
move towards a sustainable future for shipping. Evaluating and managing the risk posed bydecarbonization technologies is a big part of that effort. Our next priority will be to identify specificmethodologies for assessment and comparison, and here we believe the MTF can bring real lasting value,in line with our mission to foster sustainable and environmentally friendly technologies in the maritimesector.”/Ends
Click here to read the concept paper
About MTF
The MTF is a forum of Flag States and Classification Societies established to provide technical andregulatory expertise to benefit the maritime industry. The role of the Forum is to work together on researchwhich it will publish to the maritime industry and draw on regulatory expertise to be able to offer unbiased
advice to the shipping sector. It will seek to give guidance on the use of alternative fuels and increased
levels of automation in the industry. Furthermore, it will allow for the safe testing and adoption of newtechnologies and it will help shape world-leading regulation.
Issued on behalf of the Maritime Technologies Forum. For more information, please contact
Nicola Good
Head of External Relations
Lloyd’s Register
T +44 33 0414 0419
M +44 7855 113 273
E nicola.good@lr.org