Empowering greener container shipping

Container shipping is a key sector expected to lead the decarbonisation charge, as the predictability of vessel routeing will make it easier to source bunker supplies and build infrastructure to accommodate new fuels and technologies. 

While many operators are exploring new vessel designs to use emerging power sources, this does not address the issue of the existing global fleet needing to reduce its environmental footprint. There are more than 5,500 container ships in the global fleet, which cannot all be recycled or easily retrofitted with wind power or exhaust gas treatment systems, and must still comply with the regulations in a cost-effective manner.

We believe being more environmentally friendly should not be limited to shipowners with deep pockets and operating schedules that align with shipyard retrofitting slots. One option open to operators of existing container ships is the tried and tested SulNOxEco natural, fully biodegradable fuel conditioners that can be added to a wide range of marine fuels, including marine diesel and gas oil, very and ultra low fuel oil, heavy fuel oil and biofuels. The product is designed to improve engine efficiency and create a more complete burn of fuel, which not only reduces harmful particulate matter, but also brings bunker costs down.

From the perspective of a vessel operator, multiple benefits are soon apparent. The fuel conditioner is readily available, allowing shipowners to easily secure supplies and the mixture of vessel fuel and SulNOxEco will remain stable in the fuel tank for months on end.

Furthermore, using this method means no capital expenditure as there are no physical changes to the vessel, minimal crew training and less maintenance for combustion-based cleanup. Unlike solutions that require operators to take their vessels out of service for retrofitting and thus creating operational disruptions and crew displacement, this keeps vessels running as contracted. While most conversations at present focus solely on fuel savings (which SulNOxEco delivers – see below), it is worth remembering that less expenditure on training and maintenance will also free up funds and crew hours for other areas of improvement within the business – which can include exploring fleet expansion using eco-ships.