- Nuclear preferred to heavy fuel oil (HFO), but the UK public think it’s too risky
- Liquid natural gas likely to be regarded as a positive transitional step
- Ammonia elicits strong negative responses from the UK public
Newswise — Recent studies on public opinion regarding alternative shipping fuels reveal strong public support for biofuels and hydrogen as viable options.
In addition to biofuels and hydrogen, the research conducted in collaboration with the University of Southampton indicated a preference for nuclear energy over the current heavy fuel oil (HFO) commonly employed in the global shipping sector, despite both options being viewed unfavorably. Conversely, ammonia received the least amount of public support among the alternative shipping fuel choices.
The global shipping industry plays a pivotal role in facilitating 80 to 90 percent of world trade, but it also contributes approximately 3 percent of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Recognizing the urgency of addressing this environmental impact, 230 industry leaders made a collective commitment in 2021 to achieve net-zero GHG emissions by the year 2050. This pledge reflects a significant step toward mitigating the industry's carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices within the shipping sector.
The recently published study in Environment, Development and Sustainability marks an important milestone as the first of its kind to examine public perceptions and attitudes towards different fuels that have the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions in the global shipping industry. By exploring public sentiment surrounding these alternative fuels, the study provides valuable insights that can inform and shape strategies for decarbonizing the shipping sector in a sustainable manner.
Professor Damon Teagle, co-author of the paper and Director of the Southampton Marine and Maritime Institute at the University of Southampton, emphasizes the significant impact that transitioning to low-GHG emission fuels can have on the shipping industry. Given the magnitude of the climate crisis, adopting fuels with the potential to substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions carries profound implications for the shipping sector. Professor Teagle's statement underscores the urgency and importance of finding sustainable solutions to address the environmental challenges faced by the industry.
Recognizing the substantial investments and infrastructure necessary for the transition, industry stakeholders are understandably cautious about making missteps. To navigate this crucial phase effectively, it is imperative that policymakers and industry leaders actively engage with the public and prioritize their input. By involving the public in the decision-making process, policymakers and industry leaders can ensure that the voices and concerns of the wider community are taken into account. This inclusive approach is vital for designing a successful and sustainable transition strategy that aligns with public expectations and fosters a sense of ownership and support for the changes ahead.
The researchers carried out extensive interviews and a survey of approximately one thousand individuals in the UK to investigate public perceptions and endorse alternative shipping fuels.
Biofuel and Hydrogen received the highest favorability ratings. Biofuel was perceived as having minimal risk, while hydrogen was associated with minimal negative byproducts.
Liquid natural gas (LNG) received moderate support and did not generate a significant public response, with the primary association being its current availability.
Nuclear was relatively more favorably regarded compared to HFO, although it still had an overall negative perception due to concerns about its risks. As expressed by one interviewee, "If there was an oil spill, it's terrible. But if there's a nuclear spill, it's a catastrophic disaster."
Despite some techno-economic assessments suggesting that ammonia is a well-balanced carbon-free fuel alternative for shipping, the public perception in the UK was overwhelmingly negative. Ammonia was perceived as unproven and risky, and was described as "dangerous" and "toxic" during interviews.
Interestingly, people living in port cities were slightly more supportive of using alternative shipping fuels overall.
"The findings of our research indicate that the public is supportive of the exploration, advancement, and adoption of alternative shipping fuels in place of traditional fossil fuels, with biofuel and hydrogen being the preferred solutions," states Daniel Carlisle, the lead author from Massey University in New Zealand. "Additionally, LNG appears to be perceived as a positive transitional solution."
"Naturally, public opinion varies and evolves over time. However, the noticeable contrast between public attitudes towards ammonia and the views of scientists and industry leaders emphasizes the importance of considering public concerns alongside technological and economic assessments," emphasizes the need for comprehensive evaluations.
Public response to decarbonisation through alternative shipping fuels is published in Environment, Development and Sustainability and is available online.
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