Shipping scheme turns emissions data into tradable carbon assets

At its core is a vegetal-, ashless- and metal-free fuel treatment designed to improve combustion efficiency, stabilise fuel and reduce sludge, supporting both engine performance and lower emissions. Vessels typically undergo a six-month trial, following baseline assessments derived from historical noon reports, often benchmarked around drydocking periods.

Performance is then continuously monitored and independently verified. Through a partnership with carbon project developer Adi Terra, emissions reductions are quantified and converted into Voluntary Carbon Credits under the Gold Standard methodology, with each verified tonne of CO2 avoided generating one tradable credit.

This creates a potential secondary revenue stream. Operators can sell the credits or retain them to support compliance strategies and demonstrate progress against sustainability targets.

"Shipping does not need more pledges, it needs proof," said Aderco’s head of marine, Esteve Servajean. "This approach connects technology, data and monetisation in a single, transparent process, enabling operators and charterers to demonstrate real progress."

Adi Terra is responsible for overseeing monitoring, data integrity and verification, addressing long-standing concerns over transparency in carbon markets and strengthening the credibility of the resulting credits.

Aderco’s head of environment, Gérald Baiwir, summarised the programme as “a clear, low-risk pathway” through an increasingly complex decarbonisation landscape.