- MGC and Kokuka Sangyo have partnered to charter a coastal methanol-transport vessel, supporting Japan’s decarbonization goals for maritime shipping by 2040.
- The vessel, fueled by methanol, will help reduce CO2 emissions and serve as a bunkering vessel for other ships.
- Methanol is a clean alternative fuel that significantly reduces harmful emissions and can be produced from CO2, waste plastic, and biomass.
Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc. (MGC) and Kokuka Sangyo Co., Ltd. have announced a fundamental agreement for a long-term contract to charter a coastal methanol-transport vessel with an approximate gross tonnage of 499 tons, and supply methanol fuel. In a related development, Kokuka Sangyo signed a shipbuilding contract with a shipyard on February 5. The vessel is part of a project aimed at reducing CO2 emissions and will benefit from the 2024 Project to Promote Decarbonization in the Maritime Sector, which is supported by Japan’s Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). The vessel, expected to be completed by 2026, will play a key role in advancing the practical use of methanol as a marine fuel for Japan’s coastal shipping.
Government’s Decarbonization Goals for Coastal Shipping
Japan’s MLIT has set an ambitious target of reducing CO2 emissions from coastal shipping by 36% (approximately 3.87 million tons) from fiscal 2013 levels by 2040, with a goal of achieving carbon neutrality in this sector, which accounts for 40% of domestic logistics. This initiative includes a combination of government policies and efforts from various industry stakeholders to help achieve these reductions.
Methanol as a Sustainable Marine Fuel
Methanol has long been recognized as a clean alternative fuel for the maritime industry. It is easier to handle as a liquid at room temperature and pressure and has an established supply infrastructure. Compared to traditional marine fuels like heavy oil, methanol can significantly reduce harmful emissions—up to 99% of sulfur oxide (SOx), 95% of particulate matter (PM), and 80% of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. Furthermore, methanol can be produced from CO2, plastic waste, and biomass, making it a viable next-generation fuel that can help mitigate CO2 emissions in coastal shipping.
A Strategic Collaboration for Clean Shipping
The new vessel, fueled by methanol supplied by MGC, will not only transport methanol domestically but also serve as a bunkering vessel, providing methanol fuel to other ships operating in Japan. This collaboration leverages MGC’s established methanol supply chain, which will support the transition to environmentally friendly shipping practices, contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions in the maritime sector.
MGC’s Commitment to Sustainability
In line with its mission to “create value to share with society,” MGC is promoting Carbopath™, an environmentally sustainable platform that converts CO2, waste plastic, and biomass into methanol. Through collaboration with various industries, MGC aims to contribute to the circular economy by integrating sustainable practices in the production of chemicals, fuel, and power generation.
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Source: Mitsubishi Gas Chemical
