In a significant stride towards maritime decarbonization, researchers led by Zhengang Zhou from the State Key Laboratory of Clean Energy Utilization at Zhejiang University have published a comprehensive study in the journal *Energy Environmental Protection* (能源环境保护). The research delves into the latest advancements in technologies and applications aimed at reducing carbon emissions from ships, aligning with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) ambitious net-zero emissions target by 2050.
The study highlights the IMO’s regulatory frameworks, such as the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI), which mandate a 40% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030 compared to 2008 levels. These frameworks are driving the maritime industry to adopt innovative solutions, including retrofitting existing fleets with energy-efficient propulsion systems and waste-heat recovery technologies. “Current research focuses on retrofitting existing fleets with energy-efficient propulsion systems, including waste-heat recovery technologies and hull optimization designs, which can reduce fuel consumption by 15%−20%,” Zhou explains.
One of the key innovations discussed in the study is the adoption of low-carbon fuels like liquefied natural gas (LNG) and green methanol. These fuels are gaining traction as viable alternatives to traditional high-carbon fuels. The research also evaluates the efficacy of maritime decarbonization policies and technologies, tracking the sector’s transition from high-carbon practices to zero-carbon operations. For instance, closed-loop carbon management systems achieving up to 80% onboard carbon capture have been demonstrated in pilot projects integrating exhaust gas treatment with renewable energy sources.
The study emphasizes the importance of hybrid solutions that combine low-emission fossil fuels, renewable energy systems, and resilient carbon capture infrastructure. This includes port-based carbon dioxide storage hubs, which are crucial for sustainable decarbonization. Recent advancements have focused on optimizing vessel operations through propulsion upgrades and fuel flexibility, supported by compliance with the CII and EEXI frameworks. These policies incentivize energy efficiency and emissions transparency, seen in the widespread adoption of dual-fuel engines capable of switching between LNG and methanol.
Lifecycle management of carbon sequestration infrastructure ensures long-term emissions reductions across the supply chain, from fuel production to end-use. By integrating energy-efficient retrofits such as air lubrication systems, fuel transition roadmaps blending LNG and methanol, and carbon capture solutions, the industry achieves cost-effective emission reductions while moving from fragmented measures to unified strategies. For example, digital twin modeling for hull design enables real-time vessel performance optimization, reducing drag by up to 10% in simulated environments.
Looking ahead, future advancements will prioritize holistic vessel optimization through renewable energy integration, such as wind-assisted propulsion. Resilient supply chains for alternative fuels, along with standardized carbon accounting frameworks, will guide the shipbuilding industry toward achieving IMO’s 2050 net-zero targets. The EU’s inclusion of maritime emissions in its carbon market from 2024 is expected to incentivize investment in green fuel production and carbon capture infrastructure. This integrated approach aligns with global decarbonization strategies, emphasizing the synergy between regulatory mandates and technological breakthroughs in fuel flexibility, energy efficiency, and carbon management.
For maritime professionals, the study underscores the commercial impacts and opportunities in the transition to a low-carbon future. The adoption of these technologies and fuels not only reduces emissions but also opens new avenues for innovation and investment. As the industry moves towards a more sustainable future, the insights from this research provide a roadmap for achieving the IMO’s decarbonization goals.