Methane at Sea investigation so-called ‘green’ liquid natural gas (LNG) ships uncovers significant amounts of invisible methane released
These images show heat and gas emissions from the exhaust stack of ship engines. The bright light near the exhaust stack indicates a heat source. As the plume moves away from the heated exhaust stack, we are able to observe uncombusted hydrocarbon emissions. Image courtesy of Transport & EnvironmentInfrared images show unburned methane – a potent greenhouse gas – being released from supposedly ‘green’ LNG ships, a damning new investigation by Transport & Environment shows.
On paper, LNG-powered ships emit less. There is no dark smog. But, invisible to the naked eye, they possess a dirty secret: methane. In fact, roughlyof Europe’s LNG used by ships today are worse for the climate than the fuels they replace, due to the release of this potent gas which is over 80 times more warming than carbon dioxide.
The investigation revealed significant amounts of unburned methane being released into the atmosphere with alarming repercussions for the climate. While the bright red flames indicate the heat source, the plumes that trail off into the background are evidence of uncombusted hydrocarbon emissions. Though combustion of hydrocarbon gases may result in differing components, LNG typically contains over 90% methane. Therefore, hydrocarbon emissions seen in this investigation are primarily composed of methane.
CMA CGM includes LNG on its website under “environmental services” with statements like, “have a positive impact on public health and the environment with CLEANER ENERGY LNG.” There is no mention anywhere of methane emissions.Shipowners commissioned more gas-fuelled vessels in 2021 than the four previous years combined, with LNG-powered ships promoted as a clean alternative to traditional fuels.
To avoid this, the EU must adopt stricter greenhouse gas reduction targets for all ships arriving and departing from European ports, so that the sector achieves zero-emissions by 2050 at the latest.
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