Study: Using LNG Bunkers in the Arctic Could Greatly Reduce Risks Associated with HFO

WWF - Canada says they want the next edition of the Polar Code to include the phasing out and eventual ban of HFO-fueled ships in the Arctic

The World Wild Life Fund - Canada (WWF - Canada) Monday said that a recent study, Fuel Alternatives for Arctic Shipping, suggests that switching to liquid natural gas (LNG) for Arctic shipping operations could greatly reduce the risks that are associated with using heavy fuel oil (HFO).

The study, commissioned by WWF - Canada and conducted by Vard Marine Inc., comparatively assessed the environmental impacts of HFO, diesel, and LNG, as well as the ship design, fuel consumption, and the economic aspects associated with each of the three marine fuels.

The study found that LNG created up to 97 percent less pollutants and 25 percent less greenhouse gas emissions in comparison to the other two fuels.

The study is said to have noted a significant reduction in the risk of environmental damage from spills with the use of LNG, "as LNG dissipates into the atmosphere almost immediately".

Diesel fuel was also noted to have environmental advantages in comparison to HFO, but to a lesser extent than LNG.

"Of all the marine fuel options, heavy fuel oil is the most polluting and will cause the most damage in the event of a spill," said David Miller, President and CEO of WWF - Canada.

"The Arctic environment is so fragile and unpredictable that we must do better.

"It's our hope that the next edition of the Polar Code will include the phasing out and eventual ban of HFO-fueled ships in the Arctic.

"For now we will look to both governments and industry to put nature first and make the right choice for the protection of the Arctic environment," added Miller.

While WWF - Canada admits there are some "technical and practical barriers" to the immediate adoption of LNG as the sole Arctic shipping fuel, the organization says it is hoping the International Marine Organization (IMO) will amend the International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code) to support the growth and use of LNG for shipping in the Arctic.

In February, the International Council on Clean Transportation said that emissions from Arctic shipping are estimated to grow between 150 percent and 600 percent by 2025.