The International Maritime Organization has issued new guidelines to prepare seafarers for the shipping industry's transition to alternative fuels and new technologies, as part of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from vessels.

The IMO has published Generic interim guidelines on training for seafarers on ships using alternative fuels and new technologies (STCW 7/Circ. 25), which establishes an international framework for developing and approving training for seafarers serving on ships using alternative fuels and new technologies.

The organisation is also developing fuel- and technology-specific interim training guidelines covering methyl/ethyl alcohol, ammonia, hydrogen, LPG, battery-powered ships, and fuel cells. These guidelines will be considered by the IMO's Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping in February 2026.

The guidelines are expected to form the basis for mandatory requirements for seafarer training under the revised 1978 STCW Convention Code, which is currently under review to support decarbonisation, digitalisation, and other developments.

Expanding technical support

The IMO is expanding its support to member states through several initiatives. A three-year project funded by Japan aims to train instructors from Asian countries in operating LNG-fuelled ships.

The organisation has partnered with the World Maritime University to produce training materials for seafarers on alternative fuels, which also contributed to the Maritime Just Transition Task Force training frameworks launched in September.

Through the GreenVoyage2050 Programme, the IMO is supporting trainers in developing countries to produce locally relevant courses alongside online learning modules.

The organisation has also created platforms to connect regulators and practitioners, including a recent seminar in Singapore that showcased practical training innovations ranging from simulators and VR tools to methanol firefighting exercises.

The IMO states that with new training standards, enhanced technical support for member states, and closer engagement with industry and academia, it is laying the groundwork for what it describes as a just and well-prepared energy transition for seafarers.