The methanol-fueled shipping sector is experiencing a slowdown in orders; however, initiatives continue as shipowners explore its potential for sustainable operations. Cargill, a leading dry bulk freight charterer, emphasizes that its new vessel will gather vital data to support a multi-faceted approach to green shipping. This includes innovations like wind-assisted propulsion, voyage optimization, energy-efficient retrofits, and alternative fuels such as biofuels and ethanol. Jan Dieleman, President of Cargill’s Ocean Transportation division, acknowledges the uncertainties surrounding new technologies like green methanol, but stresses the company’s commitment to testing and sharing insights to facilitate broader adoption.
The newly launched vessel, Brave Pioneer, is the first of five green methanol dual-fuel bulk carriers chartered by Cargill. Built by Tsuneishi Shipbuilding in the Philippines, this 82,000 dwt ship can operate on both traditional marine fuels and green methanol, offering greater versatility and access to various ports thanks to its Kamsarmax design. Tsuneishi claims that using methanol will reduce CO2 emissions by about 10%, NOx by 80%, and SOx by 99%, enhancing the vessel’s environmental performance.
Launched on July 17, 2025, Brave Pioneer represents a significant milestone for Philippine shipbuilding, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. attending its naming ceremony. The vessel will soon head to Singapore for green methanol bunkering before continuing to Western Australia and Europe. Cargill plans to conduct operational trials to assess green methanol’s feasibility and market demand for low-carbon freight services. Dieleman reinforces that achieving low-carbon shipping requires a diverse range of solutions, and the new fleet is designed for adaptability, allowing for a shift to greener fuels as they become more available.
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