Decarbonization of the Maritime Transport Sector: A Corridor Approach

Abstract

As part of global efforts to combat climate change, there is an urgent need for decarbonization in the maritime trade sector. With nearly 3% of global anthropogenic carbon emissions attributable to maritime trade, work is needed to identify possible pathways for achieving sustainable, low- to zero-carbon shipping. This thesis analyzes various fuel alternatives to the current fossil diesels used in the industry, including ammonia, biodiesel, hydrogen, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and methanol. Notably, the contribution of this analysis is that it looks specifically the decarbonization of the important trade corridor from Northwest Australia to Japan – instituting a “corridor approach.” Northwest Australia to Japan was chosen because this corridor currently ships large volumes of LNG and iron ore and has very strong potential to maintain its importance in a decarbonized future by transporting low- and zero-carbon fuels and iron products. The goal of this research is to contribute insights into the complexities of maritime decarbonization.