Shipping sustainability : reducing CO2 (4th propulsion revolution) – to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from ship

Abstract

In recent years, greenhouse gas emissions, especially carbon emissions, has been gaining attention in shipping industry and the world. As greenhouse gases have increased impact on global warming, it would cause melting of polar ice and rising sea levels (Ahrens & Henson, 1982). All stakeholders have been finding solutions to reduce carbon emissions. To tackle with this issue and raise awareness in the maritime industry, ICS has come up with the Fourth Propulsion Revolution targets. The targets aim to reduce carbon emissions by 2030 and 2050. This paper presents an analysis of the current level of carbon emissions and the technological solutions including alternative fuels and energy sources, carbon emission control technologies, and the technologies to reduce fuel consumption. The main methodologies used include literature review, external data sources, and interviews. This paper seeks to assess the feasibility of Fourth Propulsion Revolution by assessing the current and developing technologies. The alternative fuel and technologies will be assessed in terms of cost, feasibility, effectiveness along with their potential and challenges. Finally, recommendations are proposed for future research in the decarbonization technologies.