The decarbonisation of inland shipping remains a significant challenge due to the long operational lifespan of vessels and the high power demands for transport. However, the Methanol for Shipping project is making notable strides by retrofitting vessels to use methanol, a cleaner alternative to diesel.

In a key development, the chemical tanker Stolt IJssel has become the first inland vessel in Europe to receive certification for methanol operations. This certification was granted by CESNI, the European authority responsible for setting inland shipping standards, and the ADN, the regulatory body for the carriage of dangerous goods. Both bodies have confirmed that Stolt IJssel meets the stringent safety and environmental requirements needed to operate with methanol—a climate-neutral fuel that presents a significant departure from conventional diesel.