The Global Ethanol Association (GEA) has launched as an independent non-profit organisation based in Switzerland, with marine fuel decarbonisation as its first flagship initiative.

The Neuchâtel-headquartered organisation aims to unite stakeholders across the ethanol sector to foster collaboration, align global associations, and accelerate adoption of ethanol solutions, according to an announcement on September 4.

"The Global Ethanol Association represents a transformative step for ethanol as a strategic enabler of sustainable fuel and industrial innovation," said Martyn Rees, co-founder and president of GEA. "Our mission is to connect stakeholders with ethanol, delivering game-changing industrial transformation with real-world impact."

GEA's Marine Fuel Sector Initiative is described as an industry-led effort to establish ethanol as part of the sustainable marine fuel mix. The organisation claims it will mobilise stakeholders, including ethanol suppliers, shipping companies, and marine technology firms, to drive innovation and develop standards.

The initiative aims to provide what GEA calls a scalable and cost-effective solution for the maritime sector's transition to net-zero emissions.

"We're expanding the capabilities of new multi-fuel marine systems; ethanol can be a keystone in the transition to a clean marine fuel mix," said Justin Jacoby, GEA co-founder and secretary general. "From pilot projects to policy engagement, this initiative provides the roadmap and support needed to unlock the immense potential of advanced ethanol-based shipping steps towards fuel supply security and emissions reductions across global trade routes."

Founding member

WinGD Ltd, a marine engine technology company, has joined as a founding member of the association.

"In our experience, collaboration is the key to accelerating the energy transition in shipping, so joining the Global Ethanol Association as a founding member was a natural step forward," said Dominik Schneiter, CEO of WinGD. "Our advanced multi-fuel marine engine technology enables shipping companies to adopt ethanol as part of the sustainable fuel mix. By working with GEA, we are helping the shipping industry meet the decarbonisation targets with solutions that combine flexibility, reliability, and sustainability."

The association is inviting other companies and stakeholders to join as charter members, with more information available at globalethanol.org.