GCMD and IAPH Forge Decarbonization Coalition Across Global Ports

The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) and the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH) have signed a two-year partnership agreement aimed at accelerating the decarbonization of the maritime sector.

IAPH has a global port network comprising more than 200 port authorities and operators in over 85 countries. Together, GCMD and IAPH aim to strengthen the industry’s readiness for shipping’s fuel transition by tackling challenges and seizing opportunities in advancing alternative fuels bunkering, developing port infrastructure, and shaping evolving regulatory frameworks.

Ports are uniquely positioned to accelerate maritime decarbonization. They provide essential local expertise, including assessing navigational risks, liaising with regulators, and engaging with local communities to ensure safe pilots and trials, and enabling the eventual safe and large-scale adoption of low-carbon fuels.

In parallel, GCMD executes pilots across the value chain, co-develops risk-mitigation strategies for deploying new fuels, and establishes operating procedures for activities, such as safe ammonia bunkering and liquid CO₂ offloading.

By tailoring findings to port-specific conditions and sharing results across multiple ports, GCMD seeks to close knowledge gaps and build globally applicable practices.

Through its Clean Marine Fuels Working Group, IAPH has created practical tools for ports and shipping that facilitate safe and efficient bunker