GEAR | The International LNG Congress: seeking viable alternative fuel solutions for global shipping

The maritime sector presently accounts for about 2.8 per cent of all global greenhouse gases emissions, due to its rapid growth, dependence on carbon-intensive bunkers and the sheer size of its business. Reducing this negative impact on the environment requires a fundamental shift in the fuels, used by the global shipping sector.

While a complete switch to zero-emission fuels presents a significant challenge, liquefied natural gas (LNG) is currently playing a significant role in this transition, offering a lower-carbon alternative to traditional heavy oil.

LNG challenges and solutions

Using LNG as a ship fuel is gaining more attention around the world as it provides an immediate and large reduction in carbon intensity. LNG enables a 90 to 95 per cent reduction of sulfur oxide (SOx) and 20 to 25 per cent reduction of CO2 emissions.

An economic assessment reveals another advantage – LNG bunkering offers a more cost-effective solution compared to heavy fuel oil, presenting considerable savings for ship operators.

However, transporting LNG requires specialised vessels: ships need to have a double-hulled design and use materials capable of withstanding extreme temperatures. There are four or five large tanks inside the hull made of aluminium or nickel steel alloys to maintain integrity.

To further reduce the negative impact on nature, LNG carriers are equipped with propulsion systems powered by boil-off gas (natural evaporation of LNG during transit). This solution allows to safely combust surplus gas and convert it into less harmful emission.

The environmental narrative surrounding LNG is not without its complexities. While LNG provides a modest GHG reduction, concerns persist regarding methane slip – the release of uncombusted methane into the atmosphere.

Ongoing research and development efforts are focused on mitigating this problem through advanced engine designs and optimised operational practices.

Adapting to a new reality

With the aim to reach net-zero by 2050, the industry has been actively implementing LNG solutions. The Transport and Environment study shows that 23 per cent of EU shipping is going to run on this fuel by 2030.

French shipping company CMA CGM has contributed to this number. It launched the largest 23,000TEU LNG-powered container ships, which operate on the French Asia Line (FAL 1), one of the busiest shipping routes connecting Asia to Europe.

Beyond large ocean-going vessels, LNG is also finding applications in smaller, more specialised ships. Seaspan Ferries Corporation operates LNG-hybrid cargo ferries in Canadian cities around Vancouver and neighbouring Vancouver Island.

These vessels combine LNG-fuelled engines with battery power and electric propulsion, further reducing emissions and fuel consumption. This hybrid approach reduced the carbon intensity of the ships to 90 per cent.

The widespread adoption of LNG also requires a robust network of bunkering facilities.

The Port of Rotterdam, a major global shipping hub, has taken a leading role in this regard, investing heavily in infrastructure. It offers both truck-to-ship and ship-to-ship transfer capabilities and in 2023 reached 619,243 cubic metres of LNG volume.

Industry events driving progress and collaboration

While challenges remain, the progress made so far demonstrates that the maritime sector is successfully adapting to environmental regulation. This is further amplified by networking events that allow companies to exchange knowledge through panel discussions, technical presentations and exhibitions.

Congresses, being a large scale event and attracting a broad audience, present one of the most effective form of participation. The closed-door format that unites top-level management helps to form valuable connections that accelerate progress towards a sustainable future.

These partnerships continue to grow at one of the leading events in the sector — the International LNG Congress (LNGCON). The previous edition of the Congress welcomed more than 400 industry leaders and resulted in valuable partnerships.

LNGCON 2026, to be held in Barcelona from March 9 to 10, 2026, will continue to gather industry leaders to discuss innovative strategies of LNG implementation, driving the industry closer to its green goals.