Finnish ferry goes fully carbon neutral
A Finnish ferry operating between Vaasa and Umea has become among the first large passenger vessels to achieve carbon neutrality through battery power and biofuels. The Aurora Botnia replaced liquefied natural gas with biogas and hydrotreated vegetable oil in August while expanding its battery capacity. Technical director Jonas Teir said the ship demonstrates feasibility for larger operators.
The vessel benefits from European Union regulations that permit the sale of saved emissions to other shipping firms. Critics argue biofuels cannot scale globally to power the entire maritime industry. Environmental advocates recommend e-fuels and hydrogen as better alternatives.
The International Maritime Organization delayed voting on a global carbon pricing framework by one year after United States opposition. Shipping accounts for two to three percent of worldwide greenhouse emissions. Engine manufacturer Wartsila identified fuel availability and costs as major obstacles to cleaner maritime transport.
