SGMF publishes first ISO-compliant methanol life cycle assessment

The Society for Gas as a Marine Fuel (SGMF) has released its first ISO-compliant life cycle assessment (LCA) for methanol as a marine fuel. Conducted by consultancy WSP, the study evaluated 15 different methanol production pathways.

The assessment found that methanol produced via renewable energy sources offers significant potential for greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions, supporting the maritime industry’s decarbonization efforts. The study accounts for various engine types, including medium-speed four-stroke and low-speed two-stroke engines, noting that each production pathway carries a distinct carbon intensity.

This publication completes SGMF’s suite of marine fuel assessments, following previous studies on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and ammonia. The report adheres to ISO 14040 and 14044 standards and aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s 2024 LCA guidelines. SGMF noted that because of rapid technological innovation, regular updates to these assessments will be necessary to reflect evolving GHG intensity data and new production methods, such as co-processing.