Alternative Fuels Training for Seafarers to Support Shipping Decarbonization

Transitioning from conventional to alternative fuels (ammonia, methanol, hydrogen) to support IMO shipping decarbonization goals requires new and supplementary training for current and future seafarers. Recent debates on alternative fuel training for seafarers currently employed on conventionally fueled vessels focus on 5W1H of the practical training model necessary to minimize associated risks for workers to adapt to changes. Future seafarer training programs need to address the toxicity, flammability, and explosiveness of alternate fuel technologies. The training limitations, obstacles, and realistic training models for seafarers were examined in this paper since they are the first to explicitly address all of the risks associated with the use of alternative fuels. The paper will contribute to discussing how shipping companies could prepare their ship crew upskilling to complement future alternative fuels of their choice. The article also supports maritime education institutions to prepare for future education, training, and model courses from IMO regarding alternative fuels. These issues are examined through a review of surveys of seafarers, interviews from shipping companies, and a literature review. The study’s conclusions addressed the difficulties in teaching seafarers to use alternative fuels, as well as how to adapt to the changing environment while fuels are transitioning.