Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO):

Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO):

Why in News ? The global shipping industry, a critical pillar of international trade, is steadily moving towards decarbonisation, with ambitious targets set for 2040-2050. Currently, merchant vessels primarily rely on conventional fuels like Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO), diesel, and liquefied methane (LNG)

Relevance : UPSC Pre &  Mains

Prelims : VLSFO/LNG

Mains :   GS 3/Environment

·         Global shipping is moving towards net zero emissions by 2040-2050.

• Merchant ships currently use Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO), diesel, and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).

Green Fuels for Shipping

• Green Methanol: Made from green hydrogen and industrial CO₂; emits ~10% of carbon compared to VLSFO.
• Green Ammonia: Made from green hydrogen and nitrogen; emits zero greenhouse gas, but needs engine modifications.
• Biofuels & E-Methanol: Transitional fuels until full green adoption.

Challenges in Adoption

• High Costs: E-methanol costs $1950/tonne, while VLSFO costs only $560/tonne.
• Technology Hesitation: Shipping is conservative; adoption of new tech is slow.
• Infrastructure Requirements: Specialized storage and engine modifications needed for ammonia.

 About Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO):

What is VLSFO?

• VLSFO (Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil) is a marine fuel that contains 0.5% or less sulphur content by weight.
• It was introduced globally after the IMO 2020 regulations by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to reduce air pollution from shipping.

Why was VLSFO Introduced?

• IMO 2020 Sulphur Cap:

• • Reduced the permissible sulphur content in marine fuels from 3.5% to 0.5% starting January 1, 2020.
  • Goal: Minimize air pollution (especially sulphur dioxide emissions) from ships to improve global health and environmental quality.

Advantages of VLSFO:

• Reduced Air Pollution: Lower sulphur emissions lead to fewer cases of acid rain and respiratory problems.
• Compliance with IMO Norms: Allows shipping companies to avoid penalties and fines.
• Cleaner Ports & Coastal Areas: Less impact on coastal ecosystems.