Shipping emissions include sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM) and carbon dioxide (CO2). These emissions are caused by ship fuels, but also to some extent by the type and design of the engine. SOx and PM emissions are also influenced also by the relative fuel sulphur. Finnish gas major Gasum Oyj has recently announced that it has joined forces with ship design company Deltamarin Oy and maritime technologies major Wärtsilä Oyj, to help shipowners meet challenges.
Sulphur oxides (SOx) are known to be harmful to people and the environment. Ship emissions are a significant source of SOx and the global regulations for SOx are becoming increasingly strict. The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) ambitious greenhouse gas (GHG) strategy calls for massive emission reductions by 2050.
Regulations for air emissions are established worldwide by the IMO, as well as national and regional authorities.
Less SOx through IMO 2020 regulations
As of January 1, 2020, the IMO limit for sulphur in the fuels of ships operating anywhere in the world is 0.5 percent mass by mass(m/m). This will significantly benefit the environment and general health in the world through improved air quality.
According to Gasum, liquefied natural gas (LNG) is one the most environmentally friendly shipping fuels available and meets the requirements set by the for shipping as well as the stricter future limits set for emissions such as NOx, particulates and CO2.
The company is already supplying a wide range of ship operators with LNG.
At the same time, the pace of digitalization is accelerating. This is why the three companies are working together to show how they can help shipowners meet challenges, seize opportunities and contribute to saving the environment, all while keeping the business profitable:
- Deltamarin offers future-proof design with high cargo capacity and low energy consumption;
- Wärtsilä delivers next-generation propulsion machinery solutions with future fuel flexibility;
- Gasum enables the transition to cleaner energy
Gasum highlights that choosing LNG is a decision for shipowners as well as the operators of a vessel. Charter companies also have a say in the transportation of goods and passengers in a cleaner and environmentally friendly manner.
Already in the decision phase, Gasum may share its experience with shipbuilders and designers. This could be information regarding practical details or equipment, optimized design for smooth LNG bunkering operations, or the provision of information necessary for LNG availability and market prices.
