The Maritime Just Transition Task Force (MJTTF) has taken a decisive step in shaping the future of maritime training with the release of industry-first frameworks for seafarers working with ammonia, methanol, and hydrogen-powered ships. This isn’t just another set of guidelines—it’s a blueprint for harmonising training standards across the sector, ensuring that the workforce is ready for the energy transition. The frameworks, developed in collaboration with the IMO, Lloyd’s Register, and the World Maritime University, address both entry-level and senior officer roles, providing comprehensive instructor handbooks and accessible resources.
The frameworks are more than theoretical—they’re practical tools designed to support regulators, maritime administrations, and education institutions. They set clear criteria for developing training programmes, establishing certification schemes, and validating competencies. This includes classroom education, simulation-based assessments, and sea-time training. For shipping companies, the frameworks offer a roadmap for updating safety management systems and onboarding personnel, addressing the unique risks of these alternative fuels.
The MJTTF’s work aligns closely with the IMO’s ongoing review of the 1978 STCW Convention. The frameworks serve as a direct input to this process, particularly in defining the knowledge, understanding, and proficiency required for seafarers in decarbonisation. This collaboration underscores the importance of a unified, global approach to training, ensuring that the maritime industry can navigate the energy transition safely and effectively.
The frameworks are not just a launch—they’re an invitation. The MJTTF encourages widespread adoption, adaptation, and sharing of these resources. As the industry moves towards net-zero, the frameworks provide a foundation for training the next generation of seafarers, ensuring they are equipped to handle the challenges and opportunities of alternative fuels.
Today’s announcement is celebrated as part of Lloyd’s Register’s Maritime Human Capital Management Forum, held in conjunction with London International Shipping Week 2025. The event highlights the critical role of the human element, safety, training, and just transition principles in the maritime industry’s energy transition. The frameworks are a testament to the collective effort of industry partners and experts, reflecting a shared commitment to shaping a sustainable and skilled maritime workforce.
The release of these frameworks marks a significant milestone in the maritime industry’s journey towards decarbonisation. By providing clear, practical guidance, the MJTTF is not only preparing seafarers for the future but also setting a global standard for training and competency. As the industry continues to evolve, these frameworks will be instrumental in ensuring that the workforce is ready to meet the demands of the energy transition.