Civil society organizations target methane emissions, urge investment in zero-emission solutions
A global shift away from liquefied natural gas (LNG) is on the horizon, driven by the “Beyond Methane Pledge” launched by a coalition of seven environmental organizations. Announced on July 31, 2024, the initiative aims for a complete phase-out of LNG and other methane-based fuels across all sectors by 2030.
Key Targets of the Pledge:
- Ship owners: The pledge calls for a halt to new LNG-powered vessels and a transition to zero-emission technologies.
- Ports and policymakers: Developing infrastructure and regulations to support clean shipping practices.
- Financial institutions: Divesting from LNG projects and investing in sustainable alternatives.
Why is LNG a Problem?
While seen as a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels, LNG contains methane, a potent greenhouse gas with 80 times the warming power of CO2 in the short term.
Environmental Groups Call for Transparency and Action:
- The pledge demands transparency in reporting the full lifecycle emissions of LNG, including methane slip (unburnt methane escaping during combustion).
- Experts warn that methane slip from LNG-powered ships could significantly undermine any climate benefits.
Concerns Over Stranded Assets:
- With major shipping companies like CMA CGM and Hapag-Lloyd planning new LNG vessels, there’s a risk of stranded assets as the industry shifts to cleaner options.
- The industry group SEA-LNG proposes bioLNG and e-LNG as potential solutions, but their large-scale viability remains uncertain.
Zero-Emission Alternatives Exist:
The pledge advocates for investment in wind power technology and e-fuels derived from green hydrogen for powering ships.
Shifting Gears: From “Bridge Fuel” to Sustainable Future
Environmental advocates argue that LNG is not a true “bridge fuel” to a sustainable future, but rather a “bridge to climate disaster.” The Beyond Methane Pledge urges the industry to embrace readily available zero-emission technologies and invest in a cleaner maritime future.
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