China’s launch of biofuel shipping fuel is only the start of industry’s green push
China’s launch of biofuel shipping fuel is only the start of industry’s green push South China Morning Post
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Chimbusco Pan Nation Petro-Chemical Achieves Milestone in Sustainable Shipping Fuel
Introduction
Chimbusco Pan Nation Petro-Chemical, Hong Kong’s largest shipping fuel supplier, has achieved a significant milestone for China by successfully refuelling an ocean-going vessel using a climate-friendly marine biofuel mix. This achievement aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping industry.
Transition to Sustainable Fuel
The biofuel blend used by Chimbusco Pan Nation Petro-Chemical has a much lower carbon footprint compared to conventional bunker fuel. It was recently used to power a vessel operated by Japanese shipping firm Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha. This milestone demonstrates the company’s commitment to meeting the decarbonisation goals set by the IMO.
Exploring Alternatives
Director Calvin Chung Dik-hong stated that the company is actively searching for other affordable long-term alternatives to meet the requirements of the IMO’s decarbonisation drive. Options such as methanol, liquefied natural gas (LNG), ammonia, battery-powered vessels, and vessels assisted by solar or wind energy are being explored. The industry is currently in an exploratory stage, as each alternative has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Green Fuels
Ammonia and methanol, traditionally derived from fossil fuels, can now be produced as green fuels if they are derived from hydrogen made using renewable energy sources. This development opens up new possibilities for sustainable fuel options in the shipping industry.
Global Climate Ambitions
In July, the IMO upgraded its climate ambitions, committing its member nations to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The organization also aims to reduce emissions per unit of transport work by at least 40% by 2030 and cut absolute emissions by 30%. This aligns with the SDGs and emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices in the shipping industry.
Environmental Impact
Shipping currently accounts for approximately 3% of global carbon emissions. By using the biofuel blend supplied by Chimbusco Pan Nation Petro-Chemical, vessels can reduce their emissions by around 20%. This demonstrates the potential impact of sustainable fuel options in reducing the environmental footprint of the shipping industry.
Future Demand
The demand for sustainable fuels is expected to increase due to upcoming European Union emissions regulations. Starting next year, all ships entering EU ports will be required to abide by the region’s mandatory greenhouse gas emissions cap-and-trade regime. This regulation will further drive the adoption of sustainable fuel options in the industry.
Industry Trends
According to Clarksons Research, a significant percentage of new vessel orders are opting for alternative fuels. LNG dual-fuelled ships accounted for 51% of orders by tonnage, followed by methanol-fuelled ships at 7% and ammonia-fuelled ships at 11%. These trends highlight the industry’s shift towards more sustainable fuel options.
About Chimbusco Pan Nation Petro-Chemical
Chimbusco Pan Nation Petro-Chemical is a joint venture between Hong Kong’s Pan Nation Petro-Chemical and China Marine Bunker (PetroChina). As the largest bunker fuel supplier in Hong Kong, the company plays a crucial role in providing sustainable shipping fuel options. It currently operates a fleet of eight bunker barges and is committed to supporting the transition towards greener shipping practices.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 14: Life Below Water
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 7.2: Increase the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix
- SDG 9.4: Upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable
- SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning
- SDG 14.1: Prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
The article mentions the use of a climate-friendly marine biofuel mix with a lower carbon footprint than conventional bunker fuel. This can be an indicator of progress towards SDG 7.2 (increasing the share of renewable energy) and SDG 13.2 (integrating climate change measures). The reduction in emissions of a vessel by around 20% when using the blended fuel can also be an indicator of progress towards SDG 9.4 (sustainable infrastructure) and SDG 14.1 (reducing marine pollution).
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy | Increase the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix | Use of a climate-friendly marine biofuel mix with a lower carbon footprint |
| SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure | Upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable | Reduction in emissions of a vessel by around 20% when using the blended fuel |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning | Use of a climate-friendly marine biofuel mix with a lower carbon footprint |
| SDG 14: Life Below Water | Prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds | Reduction in emissions of a vessel by around 20% when using the blended fuel |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: scmp.com
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