In a recent study published in “Energies,” researchers led by Matteo Prussi from the DENERG department at Politecnico di Torino have taken a significant step towards making maritime fuels more sustainable. The focus is on the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) newly adopted Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) guidelines, which aim to help the maritime sector reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
As the maritime industry grapples with the pressing need to decarbonize, this research highlights a promising alternative: pyrolysis oil derived from waste wood. Pyrolysis oil not only utilizes waste materials but also has the potential to significantly cut emissions when blended with traditional Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO). Prussi and his team have quantified the GHG savings achievable through this innovative approach, revealing that upgraded pyrolysis oil can yield a Carbon Intensity of just 32.3 gCO2e/MJ.
“The blending approach allows addressing relevant technical barriers that may limit the large-scale deployment of alternative fuels in the maritime sector,” Prussi noted. This is crucial as the maritime industry seeks to transition to greener practices while maintaining operational efficiency. By integrating pyrolysis oil with existing fuel systems, ship operators can tap into a more sustainable fuel source without overhauling their current infrastructure.
The study emphasizes the importance of further research to optimize the blending rates of pyrolysis oil and HFO. With a focus on substituting natural gas inputs with green hydrogen, there’s a clear pathway for immediate reductions in the final Carbon Intensity of these blends. This could open new avenues for fuel supply chains, creating opportunities for companies involved in both the production of pyrolysis oil and the upgrading processes.
Moreover, the findings suggest that the maritime sector can leverage existing technologies and practices to enhance sustainability. For instance, using biodiesel or pyrolysis oil in auxiliary operations, such as powering forest tractors, could lead to additional GHG reductions across the supply chain.
As the industry faces increasing regulatory pressure and societal expectations to reduce its carbon footprint, embracing these alternative fuels could position maritime companies as leaders in sustainability. The IMO’s LCA guidelines serve as a critical framework for evaluating and implementing these changes, ensuring that the transition to greener fuels is both effective and measurable.
In summary, this research not only outlines the environmental benefits of pyrolysis oil but also underscores the commercial opportunities that lie ahead for the maritime sector. By adopting these guidelines and exploring innovative fuel blends, companies can take significant strides towards meeting the IMO’s ambitious GHG reduction targets and contribute to a more sustainable future for maritime transport.
