- Hurtigruten’s innovative ship includes aluminum retractable sails, solar panels, and air bubble systems for fuel efficiency.
- The IMO targets a 40% reduction in shipping industry carbon emissions by 2030.
- Maersk is adopting green methanol and dual-fuel vessels.
- Advances in ship design are critical for achieving greater energy efficiency and lower emissions.
With increasing pressure to address climate change, the shipping industry is turning back to sails and adopting innovative designs to lower carbon emissions. Companies like Hurtigruten and Maersk are spearheading efforts with cutting-edge technologies, aligning with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) ambitious emission reduction targets, reports Forbes.
Hurtigruten’s Zero-Emission Cruise Ship
Hurtigruten is developing a zero-emission cruise ship tailored for Arctic exploration. Equipped with five 35m retractable aluminum sails featuring solar panels (16,000 sq. ft. total), the vessel incorporates advanced technologies like air bubble surfacing and streamlined thrusters.
The ship, under construction in Mauritius, is expected to be operational by June 2026.
Emission Reduction in Commercial Shipping
The tourism industry’s efforts are mirrored by commercial shipping. Cargill’s WindWings on the Pyxis Ocean demonstrated significant fuel savings, reducing fuel consumption by 11 tonnes per day in optimal conditions.
Such technologies align with the IMO’s strategy to cut shipping carbon emissions by at least 40% by 2030.
Methanol-Powered Ships by Maersk
Maersk is leading the green methanol movement, operating the Laura Maersk and ordering additional dual-fuel vessels from Hyundai Heavy Industries.
While methanol can reduce GHG emissions by 65% compared to traditional fuels, its efficacy depends on the production process.
Design Innovations for Sustainability
Advanced hydrodynamic hulls, friction-reducing coatings, air lubrication systems, and energy-efficient propellers or electric propulsion are reducing ships’ fuel consumption.
The IMO predicts that new vessels built in 2025 will be 30% more energy efficient than those constructed a decade prior.
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Source: Forbes
