Aiming to achieve zero emissions from ships

Abstract

The world is on the brink of collapse with increase in the carbon emission and melting polar ice caps. We are almost near extinction with the average temperature rise around 7⁰C till 2100. As mankind is driving towards future, there is more importance being given to green practices with changing government policies.

Maritime sector has also developed various regulations and conventions to lower the emissions and new concept of “Zero Emissions”, was derived. Recent trends in shipping show a huge inclination towards stripping-off emissions to lowest values possible. We know that the standard fuel cycles are not much efficient even with the various improvisations made over. Fuel cells have proven to be efficient power sources over the last decade with maximum efficiency up to 82% which is almost twice of the standard engine cycles. There have been sincere efforts by automobile industries with hybrid vehicles coming into the picture, now it is time for hybrid vessels too.

Vessels can be run using hydrogen power plants with an effective analysis of the total outcomes of using hydrogen as a fuel in terms of profits to the owner and also to the environment. Economic viability of any change is the most important consideration in the industry, inherent with all other requirements all standards and conventions can be abided which are mainly concerned to environment with almost least equipment onboard.