Ammonia does not seem to be the sustainable fuel solution for maritime transport

Ammonia (NH3) has until recently been presented as a promising alternative to fossil fuels in maritime transport. Its main attraction lies in its combustion capacity without generating CO2 emissions, a crucial factor in combating climate change. However, recent research has questioned the sustainability of ammonia as a marine fuel, due to the generation of other polluting gases, such as nitrous oxide (N2O).

N2O is a greenhouse gas with a global warming potential 298 times greater than CO2. Its emission during the combustion of ammonia represents a significant challenge for the environmental viability of this fuel.

Research estimates that N2O emissions from ammonia could be comparable or even higher than those from heavy fuel oil, the conventional marine fuel. This means that while ammonia does not produce CO2, its use could have a negative impact on global warming in the short term.

Despite the challenges, the search for sustainable solutions for maritime transport continues. Various strategies are being explored to minimize N2O emissions from ammonia, adjusting and improving combustion processes. And also using filters and catalysts to remove N2O from the exhaust gases.

It is important to remember that time is fundamental, since the goal of being sustainable in the year 2050 is getting closer and today there is no feasible solution, and the decarbonization of maritime transport is one of the urgent tasks to mitigate the climate change.

While ammonia is not a perfect solution, it offers a viable alternative to fossil fuels and could contribute to the transition to a more sustainable future. Collaboration between governments, companies and researchers will be essential to overcome the challenges and see if it is possible to make ammonia a viable option for cleaner shipping.

And if it is not, it is necessary to find a viable solution as soon as possible, and one that is not too long term. I have read ideas that promote using nuclear energy, which could be viable but is not fast at all.

And meanwhile, large transport ships and enormous cruise ships continue to be built that will continue to pollute the environment for decades.

I am clear that the objective of having sustainable maritime transport in 2050 is another climate objective that will not be met.