On 14 September, the "world's first green container vessel" was launched in Denmark by the EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. This is the stepping stone for the international shipping industry, which hopes to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Today, it accounts for around 3% of greenhouse gas emissions.

The container ship was named Laura Maersk. It is the first container ship powered entirely by environmentally friendly methanol and belongs to Denmark's Maersk, the second largest shipping company in the world. The name Laura is deeply rooted in the company's history. When Captain Peter Maersk Moller bought his first steamship in 1886, he named her "Laura".

Methanol is a colourless liquid that can be used as a fuel. It is described as green when it is produced from low-carbon sources such as hydrogen or biomass.

Compared to conventional fuels such as petrol or diesel oil, green methanol can reduce CO2 emissions by 60-95%. It also emits less sulphur oxides, which contribute to air pollution and acid rain.

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), green methanol production remains low. It is currently produced at 0.2 million tonnes per year. In comparison, 98 million tonnes of conventional methanol is produced from fossil fuels.

The market for green methanol is growing, with more and more countries and industries recognising its potential. In addition to the maritime sector investing in this fuel, China has started to use it in buses and trucks.

Source: Maersk.com