The Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) is a forum of Flag States and Classification Societies, established to provide technical and regulatory expertise to benefit the maritime industry. Notably, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) joined the Maritime Technologies Forum in December 2023 as an associate member and played a significant role in contributing to the work of MTF, underscoring the collaborative efforts of industry stakeholders in shaping the future of maritime technologies and practices.

At the MTF seminar held during the Singapore Maritime Week 2024, MTF presented key findings from two upcoming reports that will cover the development and implementation of safety management systems for alternative fuels as well as safety considerations for establishing green corridors.

The first report, “Safety considerations for establishing green shipping corridors," delves into the critical aspect of sustainability within the maritime domain. Focusing on the establishment of green shipping corridors, the report outlines key safety concerns and considerations for the operation of ships sailing with alternative fuels to ensure the seamless integration of eco-friendly practices into maritime logistics networks. By addressing potential safety hazards, proposing risk mitigation strategies and providing suitable recommendations in the form of a checklist, the report seeks to facilitate information sharing on green corridor safety considerations for ship owners and port authorities planning to establish and operate green corridors.

The second report, "Guidelines to develop and implement a safety management system for alternative fuels on board ships," explores the gaps and uncertainties within the implementation of the international Safety Management (ISM) code in relation to the application of alternative fuels onboard ships It offers comprehensive guidance for the development and implementation of Safety Management Systems (SMS) tailored to the specific challenges and considerations associated with the usage of alternative fuels. By providing assessments and recommendations mirroring each section of the ISM Code’s Part A, companies can easily use the guidelines to develop new SMS and/or strength their existing SMS for usage of alternative fuels onboard their fleet.

Panellists comprising of distinguished industry leaders, representatives from the (MPA) and Classification Society delivered keynote addresses, offering visionary perspectives on the future trajectory of the maritime sector amidst rapid technological advancements and pathway to decarbonisation.

The seminar provided ample networking opportunities for participants to engage with industry peers, forge new partnerships, and exchange ideas, fostering a collaborative maritime ecosystem poised for innovation and growth.

MTF’s published reports can be found via this link: www.maritimetechnologiesforum.com. MPA encourages our ship owners, managers and operators to go through the reports to gain the insights of the safety considerations related to the adoption and use of alternative fuels on board ships.