Why the Shipping Industry Is Turning Its Attention to Nuclear Power

AI Summary

The shipping industry is considering nuclear power as it seeks to reduce pollution from vessels, which account for about 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The article also describes the environmental impacts of conventional marine fuels and the limited use of shore power by cruise ships.

Commercial shipping causes significant pollution, accounting for about 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, or roughly a billion tonnes of CO2-equivalent annually. Heavy fuel oil combustion emits sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx) and black carbon, worsening coastal air quality and causing respiratory illness. Ships release millions of gallons of oily bilge water that spreads invasive species, along with fuel from accidental spills into marine habitats. While between 46% and 72% of cruise ships utilize electric shore power, the technology…