Class societies are uniting efforts to standardize emissions data fields within the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The recently introduced ‘Fuel Oil Consumption and CII Reporting Dataset’ includes over 140 data fields aimed at enhancing environmental reporting requirements.
These additions were developed by the IMO’s Expert Group on Data Harmonisation (EGDH) as part of the FAL 49 update, with a goal of streamlining emissions reporting and aiding vessel operators in aligning with regulatory requirements. This initiative results from a year-long collaboration among classification societies within the Smart Maritime Council, such as Lloyd’s Register, ABS, Bureau Veritas, ClassNK, and DNV.
They partnered with BIMCO, the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS), and Energy LEAP to establish standardized emissions data reporting frameworks. Rob O’Dwyer, Chairman of the Smart Maritime Council, emphasized the potential for these standards to transform data collection and exchange in the industry, thereby improving the accuracy of information reported by vessels.
With classification societies serving as Accredited Verifiers for emissions reporting, creating a unified standard of data points that meets the criteria for all class participants will enable broader applicability in various maritime emissions reporting processes. The collaborative effort resulted in an aggregated list of data fields that comply with current and forthcoming emissions regulations, including the IMO Data Collection System (DCS), EU Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV), Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), and FuelEU Maritime.
BIMCO’s Chief Naval Architect, Jeppe Skovbakke Juhl, highlighted the importance of prioritizing standardization for effective data collection processes necessary for achieving net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. This standardization will not only enhance workflows but also improve the precision of ships’ emissions reporting, facilitating more effective data exchange and fostering trust in reported information.
Leaders from various organizations, including Lloyd’s Register, ABS Wavesight, and Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, expressed their commitment and satisfaction in contributing to this vital regulation, which supports sustainable maritime operations through accurate and harmonized data.