New findings reveal that LNG imports to Europe are up to 30% more polluting than previously estimated, challenging its status as a cleaner alternative to traditional shipping fuels like heavy fuel oil.
The Hidden Environmental Cost
A report by Energy and Environmental Research Associates for Transport & Environment (T&E) highlights the severe impact of upstream emissions – those generated during extraction, processing, liquefaction, and transport.
Well-to-tank emissions: Vary significantly based on the LNG source, averaging 24.4gCO₂e/MJ compared to the 18.5gCO₂e/MJ assumed by EU regulations.
Methane slip: Unburned methane from LNG engines, especially in cruise and passenger ships, further negates climate benefits.
A Threat to Decarbonisation Goals
With nearly 1,200 LNG-powered vessels globally and almost 1,000 on order, LNG’s underestimated pollution could undermine the shipping industry’s climate goals, including the EU's FuelEU Maritime targets for an 80% greenhouse gas reduction by 2050.
Calls for Regulatory Reform
T&E urges the EU and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to:
Update emissions factors in the FuelEU Maritime law to reflect accurate upstream data.
Standardise lifecycle emissions reporting for all shipping fuels.
The Case for Green Alternatives
T&E shipping officer Inesa Ulichina emphasized:“Fossil gas is dirtier than assumed and no solution for zero-emission goals. Investments should pivot to green e-fuels, which offer a truly sustainable path forward.”
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