Viking Line is set to make a significant environmental impact by operating its vessels, Viking Glory and Viking Grace, exclusively on liquefied biogas (LBG) for a full week starting August 29, 2024. This initiative marks the debut of the Baltic Sea’s first green shipping corridor, as Viking Line celebrates Baltic Sea Day with a commitment to sustainability.
From August 29 to September 4, Viking Line’s climate-smart vessels will reduce their carbon dioxide emissions by an impressive 90% compared to the typical use of liquefied natural gas (LNG). This switch to biogas is expected to cut about 2,600 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions during the week, equivalent to the annual carbon footprint of approximately 270 Finns.
Dani Lindberg, Viking Line’s Sustainability Manager, highlighted the historic nature of this initiative “This is an historic moment for us, the Baltic Sea, and maritime transport. Scheduled service has never before been powered solely by biofuel. We have invested 450 million euros in our climate-smart vessels, Viking Grace and Viking Glory, and one of their most important features is their ability to run on LNG, biofuel, and future synthetic fuels produced from renewable energy. Such significant environmental measures are the result of our long-term work.”
This week-long operation not only represents a milestone in Viking Line’s environmental efforts but also underscores the growing role of biogas in maritime transport. For the past year, Viking Line has offered passengers and corporate customers the option to purchase biofuel corresponding to the fuel used for their travel, achieving a 90% reduction in emissions per passenger or cargo unit. The uptake of this option has surged by 500% since its introduction in the booking system.
Lindberg also noted the challenges associated with biogas “There is still limited access to renewable fuels, and the price for such fuels is at least twice as high compared to LNG. It is important to create demand in order for supply to rise and the price to fall.”
Viking Line’s biogas is supplied by Gasum, produced from food and agricultural waste in Europe. Each consignment’s origin is meticulously documented, ensuring transparency and traceability.
Viking Line is also actively involved in developing green sea corridors between Turku and Stockholm, as well as between Helsinki and Tallinn. These corridors aim to achieve carbon-neutral transport for both cargo and passengers. This initiative aligns with the EU’s Fit for 55 programme and the International Maritime Organization’s strategy for greenhouse gas emissions.
Viking Line’s Environmental Journey:
- 1980s: Introduction of waste recycling onboard and cessation of toxic paint usage. First land-based power supply installed in Stockholm.
- 1990s: Transition to low sulfur fuel and improved wastewater treatment. Cold seawater used for air cooling and energy recovery from flue gases.
- 2000s: Viking Line becomes the first to use Humid Air Motor technology for reducing nitrogen oxide emissions. Installation of catalytic converters and initiation of biowaste recycling.
- 2010s: Viking Grace becomes the world’s first vessel to use 100% sulfur-free LNG and tests rotor sail technology. Introduction of energy recovery systems.
- 2020s: Viking Glory introduced with optimized fuel utilization and innovative energy recovery systems. Passengers and cargo customers have the option to purchase biogas, reducing emissions by up to 90%.
This exclusive biogas operation on the Turku route is a significant step forward in Viking Line’s ongoing commitment to reducing its environmental impact and leading the maritime industry toward greener practices.
About Viking Line
Viking Line is a leading provider of passenger and cargo transport services in the Baltic Sea region. With a commitment to sustainability and innovation, Viking Line operates a fleet of climate-smart vessels and is dedicated to advancing green shipping practices.
Source Viking Line