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Ministry Of Environment News

02 Jan 2024

New Tech to Monitor a Ship's Black Carbon Emissions

Image Courtesy Green Instruments A/S and Danish Technological Institute

Green Instruments A/S and Danish Technological Institute have developed a real-time flue gas sensor technology - The Extinction-Minus-Scattering (EMS) measurement method - to accurately measure black carbon emissions from ships, a tech which could be instrumental in meeting increasing regulatory demands of the shipping industry for black carbon emission standards. The EMS method enables real-time in-situ measurement capabilities, traceability, and lowered ownership costs, tackling…

03 Aug 2023

Harsh Weather Offshore LNG Terminal Firm Crown to Merge with Catcha

Kakinada LNG terminal (Illustration by Aker Solutions)

Crown LNG Holdings AS, a provider of LNG liquefaction and regasification terminal technologies for harsh weather locations, has agreed to merge with Catcha Investment Corp, a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company, that would result in Crown becoming a U.S. publicly listed company. The combined company, named Crown LNG Holdings Limited (“PubCo”), intends to apply to list its shares on the New York Stock Exchange under the new ticker symbol “CGBS”.Crown designs and…

13 Jan 2022

Is Baltic Sea Special Area for Passenger Ships Really Special?

Photo copyright Baranov/AdobeStock

The persistent eutrophication (being too rich in nutrients) of the Baltic Sea prompted the IMO’s Baltic Member States to tackle shipping’s < 0.1% contribution by designating the Baltic Sea as the first Special Area under Annex IV of IMO’s MARPOL Convention [1]. Passenger ships must give sewage to wastewater treatment works (WWTWs) ashore via the port reception facilities (PRFs) or operate a nutrient removal sewage treatment plant (STP) on board prior to discharge. It has been perceived as a positive move. But how special is the Special Area?Rules at sea vs.

27 Apr 2021

Panama Canal to Become Carbon Neutral by 2030

© diegograndi / Adobe Stock

The Panama Canal has set out to decarbonize its operations, with a target to become carbon neutral by 2030.“We at the Panama Canal are committed to sustainability, and therefore are laying the foundation, creating the tools and identifying the changes needed to achieve efficiencies that will allow us as an organization to reach carbon neutrality. This is a fundamental strategy for the waterway's long-term operation and sustainability,” said Panama Canal Administrator Ricaurte Vásquez Morales.

28 Oct 2020

Meet the World's First Digital Smart Ship, the Japanese Built LNG-Fueled PCTC Sakura Leader

Photo: NYK

The run up to 2050 and dramatic reductions in emissions from ships will, by most expert’s thinking, be an evolution of small steps premised on melding new fuels and digitalization technologies. The recent delivery of the LNG-fueled PCTC Sakura Leader to NYK can be considered a sizable leap in this regard, as the ship has been designated as the world’s first digital smart ship.A Big Step Toward CO2 Reduction TargetsOn October 28, NYK took delivery of Sakura Leader, a pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) capable of navigating oceans with only LNG as the ship’s main fuel.

24 Jul 2020

Aerial Drone Sniffs Out Ship Emissions in Denmark

(Photo: Danish Maritime Authority)

A new aerial drone is being tested to monitor vessel emissions in the Great Belt, a busy shipping lane between the islands of Zealand and Funen in Denmark.Having previously been used for various surveillance tasks, the drone is being provided by the European Maritime Safety Agency to operate over the next four months in a specific area north of the Great Belt, which connects the Baltic Sea to the Kattegat strait and Atlantic Ocean.The drone will fly into ships' exhaust gas plumes and use its so-called “sniffer technology” to register the sulphur content in the fuel.

29 Apr 2020

Fugro Mapping Arctic Waters off Norway

Photo: Fugro

The Norwegian Hydrographic Service has awarded Fugro another hydrographic survey contract as part of the MAREANO seabed mapping program, financed by Norway’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries, and the Ministry of Environment.Fugro said it has already completed 10 surveys for the program since 2006 and acquired over 140,000 km2 of data. This latest survey will collect high-resolution, high-density multibeam echosounder and sub-bottom data to produce seamless datasets for the Norwegian mapping program.

05 Feb 2020

NYK Orders 2nd LNG-Fueled PCTC

Japanese shipping and logistics company Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK) has placed an order to build a second LNG-fueled pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) with Shin Kurushima Dockyard Co.The shipbuilding contract was signed at NYK’s head office on January 31. The vessel is scheduled to be delivered in 2022 and will become NYK’s second LNG-fueled PCTC."With this new vessel, NYK will be able to provide more customers with a low-carbon transportation mode, and the company will continue its efforts to reduce its environmental load and contribute to the realization of a sustainable society," said the shipping company.It said that NYK…

24 Dec 2019

Mitsubishi Delivered First LNG FGSS Fueled PCC

FGSS module (Photo: MHI)

Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. has delivered the first LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) fuel supply system "FGSS (Fuel Gas Supply System)" for dual fuel marine engines. This system will be installed onboard the first LNG fueled pure car carrier (PCC) built in Japan, which is currently under construction at Shin Kurushima Toyohashi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.The FGSS is an LNG fuel gas supply system developed by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding utilizing LNG and vaporized gas handling technology developed through its long experience on the construction of LNG carriers…

24 Sep 2019

NYK Places Order for World’s Largest LNG-Fueled PCTC

During the keel laying ceremony, second from left; Takaya Soga, managing corporate officer of NYK (Photo: NYK Group)

NYK has placed an order for the world largest pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) capable of navigating oceans with only LNG as the main fuel. A keel laying ceremony was held on September 20 at Shin Kurushima Toyohashi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd., and NYK managing corporate officer Takaya Soga and other related parties were in attendance. The ship is scheduled to be delivered in 2020 and will be the first large LNG-fueled PCTC to be built in Japan.To minimize a reduction in vehicle loading capacity caused by the installation of LNG fuel tanks…

25 Jul 2019

India Takes Steps to Check Marine Pollution

The government of India has taken various preventive steps taken by the Government of India to check marine pollution, said the Minister of State for Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya.The Minister informed that India is a signatory to MARPOL (International Convention on Prevention of Marine Pollution). In addition,  Prevention of Marine Pollution is also dealt with by Merchant Shipping Rules, 2009 framed under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958.The Minister also said  that periodic surveys of Indian flag vessels are carried out in order  to ensure compliance to the above rules. Additionally, Indian vessels are also inspected for compliance to…

04 Mar 2019

NYK Bags Environment Award

Tokyo-headquartered shipping and logistics company Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) has received the Ministry of Environment Award in the Japan Green Innovation Department at the Japan Green Bond Awards sponsored by Japan’s Ministry of the Environment, which is promoting green bond to address environmental issues.A ceremony was held on March 1 and attended by Katsuya Nakano, general manager of NYK’s Finance Group, said a release from the global transportation company.The Japan Green Bond Awards recognize outstanding initiatives in the issuance of green bonds, and publicize the efforts so as to encourage green bond issuance and investment in Japan.NYK was acclaimed for becoming the world’s first company to issue labelled green bonds in the global shipping business sector…

07 Jan 2019

APM Terminals Inland Services Gets Clearance in India

APM Terminals Inland Services' integrated Inland Container Depot (ICD) and supply chain solutions facility at Chakan, Pune has achieved a significant first after being awarded an environmental clearance certificate by the Indian government.The certification authorises the facility to store, handle, transport, and deliver hazardous chemicals in any form – a critical requirement for all industries dealing with chemicals in domestic and international trade and a key safeguard for the environment.The achievement marks a significant milestone for our operations as it is the first time it has been awarded to an ICD in India.“The certification…

03 Jan 2019

Contecon Guayaquil is LatAm's First Carbon-Neutral Port

Contecon Guayaquil SA (CGSA) became the first port in South America to obtain a carbon-neutral certification, with the Ecuador Ministry of Environment and environmental ratings agency, Sambito SA, recognizing the company’s strong and priority commitment to the environment.According to ICTSI, the operator of the Port, the certification marking CGSA’s compliance to ISO 14064-1 standards lauds the company’s policies that are directed and translated towards greater sustainability initiatives, as well as the incorporation of technologies that reduces the operation’s impact to Ecuador’s largest and premier maritime gateway.“This carbon neutral certification awarded to Contecon Guayaquil is a testament of our firm and unbreakable commitment to preserve the environment in our own way.

22 Nov 2018

MOL Announces Three Initiatives on Global Warming

Japanese shipping giant Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has  announced its support for three initiatives to address the issue of global warming. The initiatives include supporting, and active participation in the task force on climate-related financial disclosures, Japan climate initiative, ministry of environment "COOL CHOICE" national movement.The MOL Group established the "MOL Group Environmental Vision 2030" as the group's environmental management policy under the "MOL Group Environmental Policy Statement", aiming to contribute to global environmental conservation by developing environmental and emission-free businesses as its next-generation…

20 Nov 2018

Guinea's Special Focus to Protect its Coastline

The intense shipping and offshore exploration activities in the Gulf of Guinea pose major risks to its coastline, so the country pays special attention to protecting its coastline, said International Maritime Organization (IMO)Last week (12 - 15 November) a national workshop aimed at building the country's oil pollution preparedness and response capacity was held, under the auspices of the GI WACAF project – a collaboration between IMO and IPIECA - the global oil and gas industry association for environmental and social issues.The participants were able to gain key knowledge and skills – notably regarding assessment techniques and clean…

25 Apr 2018

DNV GL Develops Offshore Safety Guidance for Greek Regulator

DNV GL said it has completed a workscope with the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), under funding provided by the EU, to develop guidance for the Greek offshore safety competent authority, Hellenic Ηydrocarbons Resources Management (HHRM), under Greek law 4409/2016 which enacts EU directive (2013/30/EE) on offshore safety. The offshore major hazards guidance was presented to several international and domestic companies and the ministry of environment and energy in Athens, on March 1, 2018. HHRM, as the competent authority, is responsible for the regulation of offshore hydrocarbon operations with regards to major hazards and is responsible for developing the relevant legislative framework for Greece.

16 Apr 2018

HHLA’s Container Transporters Run on Green Energy

Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) increases efforts to improve the city’s air quality. Container transporters powered by lithium-ion batteries will move the containers at HHLA Container Terminal Alternwerder (CTA) between ships and the yard in future. The use of green energy prevents any CO2, nitric oxide or particulate matter from being emitted and the vehicles are also three times more efficient than their diesel-powered predecessors. Another benefit is that during their time at the charging station, the container transporters can contribute to the stabilisation of the grid by precisely extracting or feeding energy. The Ministry…

14 Feb 2017

Tangshan Port Shares Soar on Coal Clampdown Rumors

Shares of Tangshan Port Group Co Ltd soared 7 percent on Tuesday, to post their biggest daily percentage gain in nine months, as investors bet the small port would benefit from a major clampdown on coal transportation at its larger rival. Shares in the Hebei-based company trading on Shanghai stock exchange jumped to 4.6 yuan ($0.67), their highest since Nov. 15, on Tuesday before ending the session at 4.52 yuan. Trading volume was also higher than usual with 121 million shares, the highest in a year. The stock posted its biggest daily percentage gain since May 13 last year. The buying spree came after Reuters reported on Monday that China's Ministry of Environment is considering stopping Tangshan's neighbouring rival Tianjin Port Co Ltd…

23 Dec 2016

Cochin Shipyard Limited Developing New Dry-dock

A new large dry dock is considered essential for future growth of Cochin Shipyard (CSL), says the ministry of shipping, India. This dry dock will enable CSL to construct LNG ships, Large Naval vessels like the proposed second Indigenous Aircraft Carrier, Merchant vessels, like Cape size vessels, etc. The dry dock will also cater to repairs and upgradation of jack-up rigs, semi submersibles, etc. The  estimated cost of the proposed new High Density dry dock is Rs. 1799 Crores ($265 million). The proposal has been approved by Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on 20th July, 2016. Ministry of Environment & Forest has given environment clearance to the project on 9th November, 2016 with a major pre condition of  NBWL Clearance.

14 Dec 2016

Danish Shipowners Partnership for Green Shipping

The Danish Shipowners' Association, the Ministry of Environment and Food of Denmark and the Ministry of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs have concluded a partnership. "The Danish Shipowners' Association, the Ministry of Environment and Food of Denmark and the Ministry of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs have concluded a partnership to strengthen cooperation and dialogue across Blue Denmark within the maritime environmental area," says a press statement from Danish Maritime Authority. The partnership is to represent Danish interests globally. At the October session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) of United Nations' International Maritime Organization (IMO), the debate on international requirements for ships' environmental impact was speeded up.

11 Dec 2016

Master Plan to Develop Indian Ports

Based on the present traffic and cargo scenario of Major Ports, a Master Plan has been prepared for expansion of port capacity, which includes a number of new ports. Sagar Island (West Bengal):  Public Investment Board (PIB) has appraised the project subject to the condition that state Government shall ensure possession of the land is available to National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)  or any other Agency providing road connectivity and to railways/agency providing rail connectivity. Projected Traffic is to be around 3.5 MTPA in 2020 increasing to around 27 MTPA in 2035. Enayam near Colachel, (Tamilnadu): Detailed Project Report (DPR) is under preparation. The Port is proposed to be developed under the Landlord model. Projected traffic is around 127.05 MTPA by 2030.

24 Dec 2015

GloMEEP Energy Efficiency Project Gets Underway

The first national workshop under the Global Maritime Energy Efficiency Partnerships GloMEEP), Project, which aims to support increased uptake and implementation of energy-efficiency measures for shipping, has been held in Georgia. Georgia is one of the Lead Pilot Countries for the project, which aims to build understanding and knowledge of technical and operational energy-efficiency measures to lead maritime transport into a low-carbon future. The national workshop in Batumi, Georgia (15-17 December), focused on raising awareness of Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), in particular the energy-efficiency regulations in chapter 4.