The Global Ethanol Association (GEA) has formally launched as an independent, non-profit international organization based in Switzerland. Its mission is to bring together global resources and expertise, encourage collaboration across sectors, and strengthen the industry’s voice. GEA aims to create new opportunities in emerging markets while driving sustainability, innovation, and growth in existing ethanol industries.
“The Global Ethanol Association marks a pivotal shift for ethanol as a key contributor to sustainable solutions across sectors,” said Sylvain Zurcher, Co-Founder and President of GEA. “We are committed to bridging innovation and action, offering practical solutions that connect industry aspirations with measurable impact.”
Marine Fuel Sector Initiative: GEA’s First Major Program
GEA’s first major initiative focuses on the marine fuel sector. This industry-led effort seeks to convert ethanol’s market potential into practical applications, positioning it as a vital component in the sustainable marine fuel mix.
The initiative brings together global stakeholders—including ethanol producers, shipowners, and players across the marine fuel supply chain—to promote innovation, attract investment, and speed up adoption. The overarching goal is to generate substantial demand for ethanol in marine fuel applications while ensuring a stable and scalable supply for cleaner shipping operations.
“Ethanol has a clear role in the transition to low-emission marine fuels, especially with the rise of new multi-fuel marine engines,” explained Morten Jacobsen, GEA Co-Founder and Secretary General. “This adaptable approach supports shipowners and operators in responding to regional variations in fuel availability, costs, and environmental targets. It’s a critical move toward securing fuel supply and strengthening emissions resilience on global shipping routes.”
WinGD Joins as Founding Member
GEA also announced that WinGD Ltd., a leading name in marine engine technology, has joined as a founding member.
“Collaboration is essential to advancing the energy transition in maritime transport, which is why becoming a founding member of GEA was a natural choice,” said WinGD CEO Dominik Schneiter. “Our advanced multi-fuel engine technology enables shipowners to incorporate ethanol into their sustainable fuel strategies. Working alongside GEA, we’re helping the shipping sector meet its decarbonization goals with solutions that are flexible, reliable, and environmentally responsible.”
