Shipping: Why LNG is a More Sustainable Marine Fuel

Several scientific and technological solutions that can render liquefied natural gas (LNG) into an even more sustainable fuel, to the benefit of the shipping sector and by extension, to the environment, are available, according to the conclusions of a report released by Methane Abatement in Maritime Innovation Initiative (MAMII).

The report also calls for regulatory frameworks in order to overcome uncertainty and to incentivize the development and uptake of methane abatement technologies throughout the shipping industry.

Moreover, the report – the first by MAMII – details the first two years of the group’s activities, including successful trials of various technologies to reduce methane slip.

On his part, Panos Mitrou, the chairman of MAMII, stated that “the range and potential of these technologies have exceeded our expectations. It’s clear that with informed and early decision-making, we have the tools to abate methane. Yet, without a universally accepted certification method or regulatory framework providing business-critical incentives, the progress and adoption of these technologies will face significant delays.”

The MAMII report also refers to the development of measurement guidance, organizing trials and adapting the most promising solutions for detecting and abating methane emissions.

Additionally, it emphasizes the need for industry collaboration on standardized measuring and monitoring of methane emissions for greater transparency of actual engine methane slip.

According to the report, up to 40% of new vessels could run on LNG, which will see widespread use as a low-carbon fuel, as it is readily available around the world and can help as the shipping industry looks to meet carbon reduction targets.

The report adds: “To deliver the full GHG benefit of LNG, the escape of methane into the atmosphere must be minimized. Methane, as a greenhouse gas (GHG), is the second largest contributor to climate warming after CO2.”

Under the guidance of the SafetyTech Accelerator since 2022, MAMII was founded with the participation of shipping companies such as Capital Gas, Maran Gas Maritime, MSC, TMS Cardiff, cruise operator Carnival Corp. & Plc, along with energy multinational Total Energies and the UK’s Lloyd’s Register, and focuses on reducing the environmental repercussions of LNG with the reduction of methane slip near zero.

Source: tovima.com