Japan Launches 310,000-Ton Methanol-Powered Oil Tanker for Sustainable Shipping

As reported by Sustainability Times, Japan has recently unveiled a new 310,000-ton Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) which can enhance its position in sustainable energy transport. The introduction has been made to revolutionize the shipping industry with an aim to reduce carbon emissions.

Design and Technological Innovations

The Japanese partnership, which consists of Nihon Shipyard Co., IINO Kaiun Kaisha (IINO Lines), Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK), and Idemitsu Tanker Co., has created a design for a tanker that is 1,114 feet (339.5 meters) long and has a deadweight ton capacity of 309,000. The design's dual-fuel engine improves its fuel adaptability and environmental performance by running on both heavy oil and methanol. Shaft generators and wind-assisted propulsion are also reportedly part of the design in order to lower emissions and boost efficiency.

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Environmental Impact and Emission Reduction

The initiative aims to reduce emissions by over 40 percent, which is not possible currently due to the large tankers. Methanol is said to reduce emissions by 15 percent, which would be used in place of traditional fuel. The use of green ethanol is also expected, which can be generated from renewable hydrogen and CO2 capture. The goal is to reduce emissions to net zero.

Strategic Importance for Japan

One of the advantages of such a project would be the adequate transportation of oil and other energy resources to Japan. The design is expected to operate well in the waterway (Strait of Malacca) as Japan imports 89 percent of its oil from the Middle East.

The step can be regarded as a pioneer in gaining sustainable maritime transport. The initiative can set a new standard for the shipping industry as it prioritizes environmental concerns.