KR Launches Joint Working Group for International Standards on Ammonia Effluent Discharge

KR (Korean Register) has taken a significant step towards establishing international standards for the safe discharge of toxic ammonia effluent generated from ammonia-fueled ships. This initiative, spearheaded by Korean major shipbuilders and the Korea Testing & Research Institute (KTR), aims to address the growing need for specific safety guidelines in the use of ammonia as a zero-carbon alternative fuel.

The Importance of Ammonia as a Fuel Source

Ammonia has garnered global attention as a promising zero-carbon alternative fuel for the maritime industry. However, its high toxicity and potential risks to the marine environment highlight the critical need for international safety standards in its utilization.

One particular challenge lies in the management of ammonia effluent generated from wet treatment systems on ammonia-fueled vessels. The absence of established guidelines in this area has led to technical and operational uncertainties in ship design and operation.

The Joint Working Group’s Objectives

The joint working group, comprising key stakeholders in the Korean shipbuilding industry, aims to develop comprehensive international standards for the storage, treatment, and discharge of ammonia effluent from ships. These standards will be formally proposed to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) through the Korean government.

This initiative builds upon a 2024 proposal to the IMO by KR and the Korean government, which highlighted the need for guidelines on managing ammonia effluent from ammonia-fueled ships. The proposal was approved at the 83rd session of the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 83) in April 2025.

Looking Ahead

The joint working group plans to submit draft guidelines to the IMO in 2026 and lead international discussions on this critical matter. Kim Taesung, Director General at KTR, emphasized the group’s commitment to providing reliable scientific data to support the development of standards for ammonia effluent management.

Park Sangmin, Senior Vice President of HD KSOE Green Energy Research Lab, highlighted the working group’s role in advancing international standards for ammonia-fueled vessels. He noted that HD Hyundai’s experience in building the world’s first ammonia-fueled ship positions Korea’s shipbuilding industry as a global leader in this emerging market.

Overall, the establishment of international standards for the safe discharge of ammonia effluent represents a significant milestone in promoting the sustainable use of alternative fuels in the maritime sector. The joint working group’s collaborative efforts reflect Korea’s commitment to advancing environmental protection and enhancing the competitiveness of its shipbuilding and shipping industries on a global scale.