The delivery of Brands Hatch marks a significant milestone in maritime innovation, being the first tanker equipped with BAR Technologies’ WindWings. This technology aims to reduce fuel consumption by 1,200 tonnes annually, cutting CO₂ emissions by over 3,800 tons. Union Maritime is leading a fleet transformation towards sustainability and efficiency.
On May 14, the Netherlands unveiled the Carbon Destroy 1, the first European-designed carrier for liquefied CO2. This vessel, built at Royal Niestern Sander shipyard, can transport 5,000 tons of CO2, supporting the Greensand Future project. It aims to create a “virtual pipeline” for CO2 storage beneath the North Sea.
On May 13, Japan launched the first methanol-fueled bulk carrier, the Green Future. Owned by Kambara Kisen and constructed by Tsuneishi Shipbuilding, it features a deadweight tonnage of approximately 65,700. This vessel significantly reduces emissions, showcasing a pivotal shift in the shipping industry’s approach to sustainability.
India is set to inaugurate its first domestic coastal green shipping corridor, connecting Kandla with Thoothukudi. This initiative aims to decarbonize maritime logistics and is expected to be operational within six months. Ports will promote green fuels, including methanol, to power retrofitted vessels, advancing sustainable maritime practices.
Argentine authorities have made a significant breakthrough in organized crime with the largest drug seizure in Port San Lorenzo’s history. Investigations are ongoing after the ship’s cook confessed to involvement in smuggling. Authorities uncovered 469,500 kilos of cocaine, valued at nearly $6 million in Argentina, indicating professional gang involvement.
SK Incheon Petrochem has launched Korea’s first bio marine fuel, B30, comprising 30% bio-based materials and 70% Straight Run Fuel Oil (SRFO). This initiative aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping sector, aligning with international standards and contributing to sustainability in maritime operations. Official supply began on April 26, 2025.
Oman is set to establish the Middle East’s first LNG bunkering facility at the Port of Sohar, following the groundbreaking of the $1.6 billion Marsa LNG plant. This project, a collaboration between TotalEnergies and OQEP, aims to position Oman as a key LNG hub, with operations expected to begin in early 2028.
CMA CGM celebrated the arrival of its first Indian-flagged containership, CMA CGM Vitoria, at Nhava Sheva on April 28, 2025. Attended by Minister Shantanu Thakur, this milestone underscores the Group’s commitment to India, enhancing trade connections with a capacity of 2,592 TEU within the BIGEX Network.
Netincon Marketing Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of Kolkata’s Ripley Group, secured India’s first electric green tug tender with a bid of ₹6,30,000 per day, undercutting the reserve price. Collaborating with Mandovi Drydocks, they will hire the tug for 15 years, aligning with the Ministry’s Green Tug Transition Programme to promote sustainability.
Tsuneishi Shipbuilding unveiled Japan’s first tugboat with a hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine. Featuring high-power output and high-pressure hydrogen gas storage, the vessel aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 60%. With the ability to switch to traditional marine fuels in case of hydrogen system failure, the tugboat represents a significant step towards environmental sustainability in maritime transportation.
Cyient, GreenH, and Luxcara have teamed up to develop a cutting-edge green hydrogen facility in Bodø, Norway. This project will provide clean fuel to maritime transport in the Arctic Circle. With a focus on renewable energy sources, the collaboration aims to reduce emissions and align with climate goals.
ErectorCraft has made history by becoming the first company in the US to focus on producing 3D-printed boat hulls using LFAM technology. In addition to their innovative hulls, they offer services such as selling LFAM systems, engineering support, and training to advance marine manufacturing. Their launch signifies a new era in boatbuilding.
Japan recently launched its first hydrogen dual-fuel tug as part of the “Zero Emission Ships Project” sponsored by The Nippon Foundation. The vessel, equipped with a high-power output hydrogen dual-fuel internal combustion engine and a large-capacity high-pressure hydrogen gas storage system, aims to maintain operational performance while using hydrogen fuel.
The Baltic Exchange has introduced a Fuel Equivalence Converter for the maritime industry, aiding in the assessment of alternative fuels’ impacts. This digital calculator helps owners, traders, and charterers understand different marine fuels’ properties and their energy content. It is crucial for reducing compliance costs and transitioning to cleaner fuel options in the shipping sector.
The adoption of methanol-fueled vessels in the container shipping industry is on the rise, with HMM investing in environmentally friendly fuel options. With 26 methanol-fueled containerships in service and orders for 200 more, HMM’s decision aligns with their expansion and environmental goals. The new vessels will operate on eco-friendly bio-methanol, reducing emissions significantly.
