On the 25th, HMM announced that it has acquired the 9,000 TEU (1 TEU = 1 20ft container) eco-friendly container ship HMM Green Whale. HMM Green Whale uses bio-methanol, a next-generation eco-friendly fuel.
HMM Green Whale is the first container ship among the nine vessels ordered in February 2023 from HD Hyundai Samho and HJ Shipbuilding & Construction to enhance eco-friendly competitiveness and uses the eco-friendly fuel methanol.
The fuel bio-methanol of HMM Green Whale is produced from waste materials such as discarded tires. It can reduce carbon emissions by more than 65%, sulfur oxides (SOx) by 100%, and nitrogen oxides (NOx) by up to 80% compared to conventional fossil fuels.
HMM has enhanced its eco-friendly competitiveness with the introduction of HMM Green Whale. The EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) considers that using fuel with a carbon reduction of more than 65% results in zero carbon emissions.
In addition, HMM has contributed to achieving the 2025 reduction standard (a 2% reduction compared to the previous year) required by the European maritime fuel regulation (FuelEU Maritime).
HMM Green Whale not only uses the eco-friendly fuel methanol but also incorporates various eco-friendly technologies.
Installed are essential nitrogen oxide reduction devices for operations in the North American region, as well as onshore power supply facilities (AMP) to prevent pollutants emitted during generator use while docked, and electric heaters (replacing boiler functions).
Additionally, it is equipped with facilities required at major ports around the world, such as ballast water treatment systems (BWTS) to prevent disruptions to marine ecosystems, ensuring operations without route constraints.
HMM Green Whale will be deployed on the route that HMM operates exclusively between FIM (Far East Asia, India and the Mediterranean Sea).
HMM plans to successively receive a total of nine container ships fueled by methanol, starting with HMM Green Whale, by the first half of next year.
A representative from HMM noted, "With the recent expansion of eco-friendly fuel vessels such as methanol and LNG, HMM is closer to achieving its 2045 net-zero goal. We will actively participate in the research and development of various next-generation eco-friendly fuels like ammonia and hydrogen to continue practicing eco-friendly management."