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Global shipping contributes approximately 3% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, making it a significant source of pollution—more so than the aviation industry. This sector primarily relies on marine diesel fuel, which generates considerable carbon emissions. A London-based startup named Seabound is aiming to address this environmental challenge with an innovative, low-tech carbon capture system that could transform the industry’s impact on the climate.
Seabound’s approach centers around the use of quicklime, or calcium oxide, which is contained within standard shipping containers. Their system redirects cargo ships’ exhaust gases through these quicklime pebbles. The chemical process that follows captures the carbon dioxide in the exhaust, converting it into inert limestone that can be stored safely or potentially sold. This method offers a straightforward way to reduce shipping emissions without extensive modifications to existing infrastructure.
During a recent three-week trial at sea, Seabound’s technology was able to capture 78% of a ship’s CO2 emissions and reduce 90% of harmful sulphur particulates. The design’s modularity allows it to fit inside a standard container, making it simple to install on or remove from the ship’s deck during port stops. Despite these promising results, scaling the technology up faces challenges, particularly ensuring the quicklime used is produced sustainably, as traditional quicklime manufacturing is itself energy-intensive and produces emissions.
While the debate continues over whether carbon capture delays the transition away from fossil fuels, many recognize that such technologies will likely be necessary to meet global climate targets. The shipping industry’s attempts to reduce emissions have been slow, underscored by a recent failed international agreement on shipping emissions. In contrast, some innovators are pursuing alternative solutions, such as British company BAR Technologies testing modernized sails resembling turbine blades, and the launch of the world’s largest electric ferry, powered purely by electricity, set to operate between Argentina and Uruguay. These efforts reflect a growing recognition that cleaner shipping is crucial to addressing climate change
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