- Using biodiesel blends for immediate emission reductions with minimal retrofitting.
- Implementing hull coatings and wake equalizing ducts to enhance vessel performance.
- Operating ships at lower speeds to cut fuel use and emissions.
- Employing real-time emission measurement tools like PureMetrics™ and mass flow meters.
- Developing technologies to capture CO₂ and methane from ship exhausts.
- Transitioning to low-emission fuels such as ammonia and methanol
As a leading global tanker charterer, supporting shipping decarbonization is a top priority. The delivery of four low-carbon ammonia carriers is anticipated by 2027, but addressing current emission challenges due to increased fuel consumption from trade disruptions is essential. Immediate measures include using biofuels, enhancing energy efficiency, adopting slow-steaming practices, leveraging data and digitalization for precise emissions tracking, and developing emissions capture technologies. These actions are crucial for reducing greenhouse gases today and complement the long-term goal of transitioning to low-emission fuels, as reported by Trafigura.
Reducing Emissions
Advocating for a carbon levy and ‘feebate’ system is key to driving long-term decarbonization, but the urgent need to reduce emissions today cannot be overlooked. The shipping industry, responsible for about 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs), faces increased emissions due to current global trade disruptions. These disruptions are expected to raise fuel consumption by 500,000 barrels per day, exacerbating emissions.
To address this, several immediate actions are being focused on:
- Biofuels: Biofuels like biodiesel (FAME), blended with traditional marine fuels, can reduce emissions with minimal retrofitting. Trafigura’s bunkering joint venture, TFG Marine, and the recent acquisition of Greenergy enhance biofuel production capabilities.
- Energy Efficiency: Implementing measures such as silicone hull coatings, wake equalizing ducts (WEDs), and ultrasonic propeller antifouling can improve efficiency. Several vessels have already been retrofitted with these technologies.
- Slow-Steaming: Operating ships at lower speeds reduces fuel consumption and emissions. Although not feasible for all vessels, slow steaming can still lead to significant CO₂ savings.
- Data and Digitalisation: Accurate emission measurement is crucial. Investments in Daphne Technology’s PureMetrics™, which provides real-time emission data, and the promotion of mass flow meters (MFMs) for precise fuel measurement, are steps in this direction.
- Emissions Capture: On-board systems to capture CO₂ and methane further reduce environmental impacts. Daphne Technology’s system targets methane slip from LNG-fuelled vessels.
While these measures help reduce emissions in the short term, transitioning to low-emission fuels like ammonia and methanol remains essential for long-term sustainability. Immediate actions are crucial to mitigate climate change impacts and prevent further challenges in the future.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe
Source: Trafigura
