Role and Challenges of Onboard Carbon Capture Technology in Achieving IMO's Greenhouse Gas Reduction Goals

Abstract

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is currently discussing regulations to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships, leading to expectations of a significant shift towards more environmentally-friendly practices in the maritime sector. In 2018, the IMO announced its initial strategy to reduce GHG emissions from ships by at least 50% by 2050 compared to 2008, with a revised strategy to be adopted at the 80th MEPC meeting this year. Several member states and the Republic of Korea support achieving net-zero emissions in the shipping sector by 2050. Europe is leading the way in GHG reduction by expanding the EU-ETS shipping sector in 2024 and introducing FuelEU Maritime in 2025. To meet the IMO's GHG reduction target, the use of zero carbon or carbon-neutral fuels is essential, but their introduction currently faces challenges from a Life Cycle Assessment perspective. It will take time to establish mass production and supply systems for these fuels. This presentation analyzes current technology readiness level of alternative fuels such as Methanol and Ammonia, and introduces onboard carbon capture systems (OCCS) as a bridge technology that can work together with the presently commercialized low-carbon fuel propulsion systems. The presenters examine the role and research challenges of OCCS in achieving the IMO’s GHG reduction target.