LNG shipping expansion is no longer a low-risk commercial activity. Rapid fleet growth, misalignment with climate targets, and rising speculative vessel orders have increased exposure to climate litigation, stranded assets, and financial loss. At the same time, courts, regulators, and international bodies are strengthening corporate accountability for climate impacts and human rights harms linked to fossil fuel projects.

Recent developments—including climate lawsuits, human rights findings related to LNG projects, and recent legal clarification by international maritime tribunals regarding climate obligations—signal that continued investment in LNG carriers may create significant legal and financial liabilities unless companies adopt credible transition strategies.