How Freight Shippers Are Trying to Get Greener

Shipping is the backbone of the global economy, carrying more than 80% of traded goods. But it also accounts for about 3% of man-made carbon dioxide emissions, with the overwhelming majority of the world’s fleet running on fossil fuel. If the sector is to decarbonize in line with the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change, it needs to move beyond oil.

The ship fuels that may eventually replace today’s oil-derived products must produce lower (or zero) emissions, have enough power to propel gigantic vessels around the globe, and be affordable. Here are the main candidates: