The study underscores the importance of a holistic approach to evaluating climate solutions, considering both environmental and public health impacts. Strengthened regulations and advancements in engine technology are crucial to realizing the potential benefits of ammonia as a maritime fuel while minimizing its health risks, according to an article published on their website.
Key Findings:
- Air Pollution Impact: Ammonia combustion generates nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas, and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which can form fine particulate matter harmful to human health.
- Health Risks: Under current regulations, switching to ammonia fuel could result in up to 600,000 additional premature deaths annually due to poor air quality. However, with stronger regulations and cleaner engine technology, this number could be reduced, potentially preventing about 66,000 premature deaths each year.
- Technological Solutions: The study considered two types of ship engines: one burning pure ammonia, which emits higher levels of unburnt ammonia, and another mixing ammonia with hydrogen to improve combustion efficiency and reduce NOx emissions.
- Policy Recommendations: The researchers emphasize the need for updated emissions regulations alongside new technologies to mitigate the negative health impacts of ammonia fuel.
Environmental Considerations:
- Green Ammonia: Produced using renewable energy, green ammonia is seen as a sustainable fuel option. However, its combustion still releases harmful pollutants that can affect air quality and human health.
- Global Impact: The study highlights that the negative impacts of ammonia emissions would be most severe in regions with less stringent air quality regulations, such as East Asia, where higher levels of existing pollution would exacerbate the formation of harmful particulate matter.
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Source: MIT
