Selected Publications
The programme builds upon CMS's research on maritime decarbonisation, covering regulatory frameworks, fleet investment decisions, carbon revenue allocation and operational efficiency.
Navigating Environmental Compliance: Maritime Fleet Renewal Under Fuel Market Uncertainty
Irfan Soudagar and Szu Hui Ng | 3 March 2026
This research develops a long-term fleet renewal optimisation framework that incorporates uncertainty in alternative fuel costs and availability. It examines how shipping companies can balance fleet investments, fuel adoption, regulatory compliance and financial risks under different policy designs.
Navigating IMO Net-Zero Framework: Potential Challenges and Refinements
Iman Jafari, Irfan Soudagar and Szu Hui Ng | 12 August 2025
This working paper evaluates the IMO Net-Zero Framework and identifies potential challenges concerning compliance incentives, surplus units and funding sustainability. It proposes refinements to strengthen investment signals and support the adoption of zero- and near-zero-emission fuels.
Charting a Course Through the Uncertainties of Maritime Energy Transition
Szu Hui Ng | Singapore Maritime Research Conference, 27 March 2025
A research presentation addressing uncertainties surrounding maritime energy transition pathways and the implications for strategic decision-making.
Carbon Revenue Distribution in International Shipping
Kah-Hin Chai, Szu Hui Ng, Beng Wah Ang and Andrew Guan Yen Tham | 28 February 2025
This discussion paper proposes a framework for evaluating the distribution of carbon revenues generated from international shipping. It examines alternative funding models, trade-offs and the potential role of revenue allocation in supporting decarbonisation and addressing impacts on developing economies.
Impact Analysis of Environmental Policies on Shipping Fleet Planning under Demand Uncertainty
Yonzheng Jerry Chua, Irfan Soudagar, Szu Hui Ng and Qiang Meng | July 2023
This research develops an optimisation-based fleet planning framework to assess the impacts of emissions trading systems (ETS) on liner shipping fleet deployment under demand uncertainty. By evaluating alternative ETS designs, including regional and global coverage, carbon pricing and emissions allowance limits, the study examines their effectiveness in reducing emissions and their implications for shipping operations. The findings highlight the limitations of regional ETS due to carbon leakage and the importance of appropriate carbon pricing and stringent emissions allowance caps in achieving effective emissions reductions.
Further research on vessel fuel efficiency, propulsion modelling, fuel consumption optimisation and emissions reduction is available through the CMS Articles & Papers repository.