The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) in Singapore has launched a groundbreaking study, COLOSSUS, analyzing emissions savings and costs related to onboard carbon capture and storage systems (OCCS). It evaluates five OCCS technologies and highlights significant GHG reductions, particularly with advanced systems and biofuels, offering vital insights for shipowners.
A recent I-Tech study reveals that over one-third of 685 surveyed vessels had barnacle biofouling covering more than 10% of their hulls. This fouling significantly increases fuel consumption and emissions, costing the global fleet an estimated $15 billion annually. Effective antifouling coatings, like Selektope, are crucial for mitigating these issues.
The Maryland Transportation Authority recently completed a study on the survivability of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge in the event of a ship strike. The study revealed the need for additional protection for the piers to meet safety standards. Following the Key Bridge incident, MDTA has proposed risk reduction strategies and a $160 million pier protection program.
New research from Scottish Heriot-Watt University reveals that over half of vessels in Scotland’s coastal waters are not visible to tracking systems, hindering marine resource management. Only 43 percent of vessels near the coast broadcast AIS signals, impacting safety and marine life. The study highlights the need for improved monitoring to inform regulations and protect ecosystems.
Researchers from MIT and Georgia Tech have determined that burning heavy fuel oil with scrubbers in the open ocean can be as environmentally friendly as using low-sulfur fuels. Lead author Patricia Stathatou emphasized the importance of using objective data to compare options accurately. The study revealed that scrubbers reduce sulfur dioxide emissions by 97%.
A recent project by the Maersk Mc-Kinney Møller Center focused on converting Kamsarmax bulk carriers to dual-fuel methanol operations. The project aimed to assess the feasibility of retrofitting fuel oil-powered vessels to run on methanol, with Approval in Principle from Japan’s ClassNK. It highlights the potential for low-emission solutions in the maritime industry.
The Nippon Foundation of Japan is funding a study on “dark oxygen” found in polymetallic nodules. Deep-sea miners seek these nodules for valuable metals, but concerns about environmental impacts have been raised. Prof. Sweetman’s team discovered oxygen production in the abyssal plain, challenging traditional beliefs. Further research is planned with support from the Nippon Foundation.
An engineering study examined carbon capture technology on vessels. Despite high costs, it could extend economic life and cut CO2 emissions with a small fuel penalty. Retrofitting a tanker showed potential for a 20% reduction in emissions. Further research is needed to make this technology feasible for the maritime industry.
The container shipping industry has seen a decrease in containers lost at sea, thanks to efforts in managing parametric rolling and improving container safety. A project by the Netherlands’ Marin institute aims to enhance transportation safety, providing valuable data and education to mariners. With only 221 containers lost out of 250 million transported in 2023, the industry continues to prioritize safety measures.
A six-month trial is underway to study the cost and impact of long-term continuous use of biofuels on large vessels. Japan’s NYK is partnering with the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonization to support biofuel adoption in the shipping industry. The trial will evaluate challenges like corrosion and maintenance costs to establish industry guidelines.
A new study highlights the challenges facing ports in handling liquified CO2 captured from ships at sea, hindering the adoption of onboard carbon capture technology. Limited infrastructure and safety training pose major obstacles, with few ports equipped to offload CO2. Recommendations include defining a clear pathway for offloading and storage.
The latest report by Arthur D. Little (ADL) reveals a startling projection for the maritime industry: without decisive action, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the global maritime fleet are set to rise by a staggering 44 percent by 2050. This alarming forecast underscores the urgent need for the industry to embrace decarbonization and adopt sustainable practices.
