Shipping Sector Faces Infrastructure Challenges for Effective Carbon Capture Implementation
The shipping industry is required to reduce GHG emissions by 20% by 2030 under the IMO's 2023 GHG Strategy. Onboard carbon capture and storage (OCCS) technology is a viable solution but faces significant infrastructure challenges.
OCCS systems have been in use since the early 2020s, with installations on vessels like Nordica and Sleipnir. While 15 vessels were retrofitted with OCCS in 2025, the technology is not fully recognized by IMO, with regulatory support expected by 2028.
Effective integration into a carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) value chain is crucial, as shipping plays a key role in CO2 transport. Gaps in infrastructure and inconsistent regulations hinder progress, despite pilot projects like Northern Lights showcasing potential pathways.
