regulatory

Shipping Faces Tighter Noise Regulations, Biofuels Gain Traction

By MGN Editorial•February 20, 2026 at 02:00 PM

A roundup of recent maritime industry news, including the inevitability of underwater noise regulations, growing use of biofuels, and other market developments.

## Underwater Noise Regulations Loom for Shipping

According to a new report highlighted by Hellenic Shipping News, underwater noise levels are rising - particularly in the Arctic Ocean - yet the shipping sector's contributions remain 'under-prioritized' by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the global regulator for international shipping. Ahead of the IMO's 2026-2027 review of energy efficiency measures and greenhouse gas reduction targets, the report underscores the 'inevitability' of new regulations on underwater noise, which will likely be aligned with the IMO's climate and biodiversity goals.

## Biofuels Gain Traction in Maritime Sector

An international technical seminar explored the latest developments in the use of biofuels in the maritime sector, including the challenges and opportunities related to using marine fuels made from plants, waste oils or agricultural residues to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from shipping. According to Hellenic Shipping News, the IMO's Future Fuels and Decarbonization program is driving increased interest and investment in biofuel solutions as the industry works to meet ambitious emissions reduction targets.

## Other Industry Developments

In other maritime news, Alara Group Ltd announced a strategic partnership with Dryad Global to represent the maritime risk intelligence and cybersecurity firm. Freight intelligence and benchmarking also remain crucial for shippers to manage costs and capacity in the volatile ocean freight market, even after the tender process, reports Hellenic Shipping News.

Additionally, the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden continue to pose security threats to commercial shipping, according to a recent maritime security assessment, despite a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

Source: Hellenic Shipping News

#underwater noise#biofuels#emissions reduction#maritime security#freight intelligence

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