GREEN TRANSITION !
DECARBONIZE SHIPPING
Stricter regulations are accelerating the need for decarbonisation
The maritime industry is facing an unprecedented wave of environmental regulation, significantly accelerating the transition toward decarbonisation. Following the MEPC 80 announcements in July 2023, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) introduced a strengthened greenhouse gas (GHG) strategy, setting more ambitious targets, including reaching net-zero emissions by or around 2050, with interim checkpoints for 2030 and 2040.
These regulatory developments are not only reshaping compliance requirements but are fundamentally transforming how shipowners, operators, and energy providers approach efficiency, fuel selection, and operational strategies. Measures such as the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) are already driving operational changes, while upcoming market-based mechanisms and fuel standards will further accelerate the shift toward low- and zero-carbon alternatives.
As a result, stakeholders across the maritime value chain are under increasing pressure to adopt innovative, data-driven solutions that enable measurable emissions reductions while maintaining commercial competitiveness. Transparency, digitalisation, and real-time performance monitoring are becoming essential tools in navigating this complex regulatory landscape.
Hydro Marine Solutions play a critical role by delivering advanced solutions that support the industry’s decarbonisation journey—helping clients not only comply with evolving regulations but also proactively improve efficiency, reduce emissions, and future-proof their operations in an increasingly sustainability-driven market.
Why is shipping decarbonization important?
The shipping industry moves around 90% of global trade, making it essential for global commerce and economic development. However, most vessels run on heavy fuel oil (HFO), a fossil fuel that emits significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), sulfur oxides (SOₓ), and particulate matter.
Without intervention, emissions from shipping are projected to rise due to growing trade volumes. Decarbonizing this sector is vital for:
- Ensuring long-term regulatory and financial stability for maritime stakeholders.
- Meeting global climate targets and limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C.
- Improving air quality and public health, especially in coastal and port communities.
What are the alternative fuels in shipping
Methanol
A clean-burning alcohol fuel, methanol is emerging as a popular choice for retrofitting and newbuilds. It offers easier storage and handling than many alternatives and can be produced renewably. However, availability is still limited, and the development of green methanol supply chains is critical for widespread adoption.
Liquefied Natural Gas
LNG has been positioned as a transitional fuel due to its lower CO₂ emissions compared to heavy fuel oil. It’s widely available and supported by existing infrastructure, but its methane emissions and fossil origin pose challenges for long-term sustainability.
Synthetic Natural Gas
Produced from renewable sources, SNG mirrors the properties of LNG. While it holds carbon neutrality potential, it’s not yet scalable and remains energy-intensive and costly.
Biofuels
Derived from biomass, biofuels can significantly cut emissions and often require little engine modification. However, scaling up sustainable feedstock production remains a key hurdle.
Ammonia
Ammonia emits no CO₂ when burned and is seen as a strong candidate for large vessels. However, its toxicity demands new infrastructure and stringent safety measures.
Liquefied Petroleum Gas
LPG burns cleaner than heavy fuel oil and has a growing role in shipping. Nevertheless, being fossil-based, it’s often viewed as a transition rather than a long-term solution.
Synthetic Diesel
Produced from renewable sources, synthetic diesel is compatible with existing engines. Like other synthetic fuels, it faces challenges related to costs and scalability.
Hydrogen
Hydrogen is considered a future zero-emission champion. Yet, production costs, storage complexity, and limited bunkering infrastructure must be addressed to enable wider use.