Solvang ASA has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in maritime decarbonization, unveiling the first ship equipped with a full-scale onboard carbon capture and storage (OCCS) facility. Carbon Herald reports that the vessel is now ready for pilot testing, marking a major leap forward in reducing emissions from global shipping operations.

Innovation in Carbon Emissions Reduction

The Clipper Eris, owned by Solvang ASA, is the first vessel to feature OCCS technology. This innovative system cleans exhaust emissions, cutting CO2 output by up to 70%. Additionally, the vessel stores the captured carbon dioxide in on-deck tanks, ready for safe sequestration or potential reuse, leading maritime sustainability efforts.

Edvin Endresen, CEO of Solvang ASA, emphasized the significance of this development: “Onboard carbon capture combined with existing cleaning technology is a significant shortcut to decarbonization of the world’s deep-sea fleet. This stands out as one of the more promising solutions for future vessels.”

Collaborative Effort Drives Progress

Moreover, the OCCS pilot project is the result of a partnership between Solvang, Wärtsilä, MAN Energy Solutions, and the Norwegian research institute SINTEF. Roger Holm, President of Wärtsilä Marine, stated, “The introduction of carbon capture and storage capabilities on board the Clipper Eris is a major leap forward for maritime sustainability. It represents a system change that has been made possible by close collaboration between our companies.”

Also read: Fugro Launches First Carbon Capture Project in India at Visakhapatnam Pharmaceutical Plant

Preparing for a Greener Future

In addition to retrofitting the Clipper Eris, Solvang ASA has seven new vessels under construction, each designed to integrate OCCS technology seamlessly. These efforts align with the company’s commitment to meeting stricter environmental regulations and also advancing the decarbonization of maritime operations.

Furthermore, after months of retrofitting in dry dock, the Clipper Eris is now ready to lead sustainable shipping and inspire wider adoption of carbon capture technology worldwide.

President Donald Trump has once again withdrawn the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement. Thus, the world’s largest historic emitter has been taken out of global climate efforts for the second time within less than ten years. It captures Trump’s skepticism about the reality of climate change and attempt to deregulate oil and gas industries in exchange for higher output.

The US along with Iran, Libya, and Yemen is thus far the sole nations that left the 2015 climate treaty intended to achieve the goal set for limiting human-caused climate change to just at least 1.5 degrees Celsius, thereby avoiding dangerous effects of its rising.

President Trump has argued on various occasions that climate change does not exist and prefers policies that promote economic growth and less regulation of the environment. Trump’s policy seeks to eliminate oil and gas regulations that would boost the economy while making sure clean air and water are maintained.

Concerns About Global Climate Leadership

The decision has drawn concern from global leaders and enviromental advocates. Despite federal withdrawal, US cities, states, and businesses will keep promoting low-carbon growth, says UN Secretary-General António Guterres. “The collective efforts under the Paris Agreement have made a difference but we need to go much further and faster together, ” UN spokesperson Florencia Soto Niño told Reuters.

This is the second time Trump has withdrawn the US from the Paris accord, following his first-term exit. While Biden swiftly reversed that decision in 2021, Trump’s second withdrawal could have more immediate effects. Experts say the process could take just a year, much shorter than the original agreement’s timeline.

Paul Watkinson, a former climate negotiator, warned that the US withdrawal will make it harder to meet global climate commitments. “It will be harder this time because we are in the thick of implementation, up against real choices,” he said to Reuters. The US, the second-largest emitter after China, is essential in global efforts to reduce emissions and tackle climate change.

Also read: Donald Trump mocks climate change, says it’ll lead to ‘more oceanfront property’

Contrast with Biden’s Climate Agenda

Trump’s stance differs from Biden’s, focusing on reversing climate policies in favor of business-friendly, renewable energy support. Biden promotes clean energy, while Trump looks to reverse policies for a more business-focused, fossil fuel-driven strategy.

Critics worry Trump’s withdrawal may hinder US leadership in clean energy markets, potentially giving China an advantage. Li Shuo warns the US risks falling behind in clean energy, essential for economic growth and sustainability.