Yara Bold Voyage: In a groundbreaking initiative, Yara International and partners aim to launch the world’s first nearly zero-emission cargo ship, the Yara Eyde, in 2026. Fueled predominantly by clean ammonia, the vessel aims to slash carbon dioxide emissions by a remarkable 95%, challenging the status quo in the shipping industry’s journey toward decarbonization.
Svein Tore Holsether, Yara International’s President, urges a shift from long-term promises to tangible actions using available technologies. Shipping, responsible for around 3% of global CO2 emissions, faces a transformative moment.
Yara Clean Ammonia’s innovative approach involves utilizing both “blue” and “green” ammonia. “Blue” ammonia captures emissions at the source and stores them underground, while “green” ammonia relies on renewable electricity. Biodiesel, initially kick-starting the ship’s engine, will constitute 5% of its energy, with carbon-neutral production offsetting emissions.
Also Read: Yara Green Leap: A Pioneering Cross-Border CO2 Capture Venture
Despite the promising strides, uncertainties linger, such as the ship’s builder and associated construction emissions. Green ammonia, while promising, has drawbacks, including nitrous oxide emissions. Yara Clean Ammonia addresses this with a catalyzer designed to absorb nitrous oxide emissions, emphasizing the ongoing refinement of the engine’s design.
This endeavor follows other industry players like Maersk, pledging carbon-neutral cargo ships, and broader shipping commitments to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. However, critics argue that these efforts fall short amid a deepening climate crisis.
As the Yara Eyde sets sail into uncharted waters of sustainability, it symbolizes a pivotal moment in redefining shipping norms and pushing the boundaries of environmentally conscious transportation.