HMM to trial onboard carbon capture system on box ship

The South Korea ocean carrier explained OCCS is an advanced technology to capture CO2 from greenhouse gas emissions generated during vessel operations, ensuring it is not emitted into the atmosphere.

“This solution has the potential to play a significant role in reducing CO2 emissions,” HMM’s statement noted.

HMM has performed a feasibility study with PANASIA on OCCS for its multi-purpose vessel after both companies signed a memorandum of understanding last September. The study revealed OCCS could be installed without changing the existing equipment of the ship and does not hinder the stability of vessel operations. HMM said the collected carbon becomes liquefied in a pressurised tank and can be used for manufacturing dry ice or smart farm on land.

Based on these findings, HMM will fit OCCS in its container ship for an operational test with SHI and PANASIA later this year. HMM will take charge of the operation of OCCS, while the others will provide engineering support.

HMM has also decided to replace the propellers of six container ships with more efficient ones specially designed for slow steaming. The replacement process will start in 2024, and HMM expects to increase energy efficiency by 8-9%.

An HMM official said, “We will continue its efforts on a pathway to carbon neutrality by 2050 based on collaborative work with various industrial players”.