The shipping giant Maersk continues its environmental transition by adding a new vessel to its fleet. Powered by green methanol, it helps reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
The stakes are high for Maersk. Within the next fifteen years, the shipping company aims to achieve carbon neutrality. However, this goal is unattainable with the current fleet of vessels. That’s why the group introduced a new container ship to its fleet on Thursday, November 28.
As part of the broader efforts of an entire industry, the Danish giant unveiled a dual-fuel vessel, CNBC reports. This means that, in addition to being powered by traditional marine fuel, its engines will also run on green methanol.
65% lower emissions compared to traditional fuels
“This technology enables the industry to transition from black or fossil fuels to what we call e-methanol or green methanol, thereby significantly reducing the carbon emissions of regular maritime transport,” said Ditlev Blicher, Maersk’s President for Asia-Pacific, in an interview with CNBC.
Each day, this new engine technology prevents Maersk’s new container ship from emitting 280 tons of CO2. This reduction is achieved through the difference in greenhouse gases emitted by traditional fuels compared to green methanol. With this solution, emissions are reduced by 65%.
Less sulfur in green methanol, reducing acid rain
Like hydrogen, methanol is largely produced from fossil fuels. However, a more eco-friendly production process is possible by using sustainable and renewable energy sources, hence the term “green methanol,” as explained by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
Most importantly, green methanol has a reduced sulfur content. This helps lower sulfur oxide emissions, which contribute to air pollution and acid rain, according to the World Economic Forum.
The A.P. Møller vessel is Maersk’s ninth dual-fuel ship. The company has ordered a total of 25 such container ships, with delivery expected to be completed by 2027.
Source: GEO
