Ammonia likely fuel for Australia-East Asia green shipping corridor

A consortium led by the Global Maritime Forum and players from the mining and bulk carrier industries have signed a letter of intent to develop a green corridor for iron ore shipments between Australia and East Asia.

PHOTO: Aerial view of container yard in Melbourne. Port of Melbourne

They argue that green corridors along key shipping routes could scale up decarbonisation in the maritime sector, and support policy measures and industry actions.

The group is assessing the viability of green ammonia supply, bunkering and first-mover support mechanisms for iron ore freight between Australia and East Asia. It will facilitate regular public-private dialogue to scale up zero-emission shipping.

“Zero-greenhouse gas emission pathways require the creation of a parallel value chain that involves new ways of working, new contractual relationships, and drives the development of decarbonized fuel production and infrastructure,” said Global Maritime Forum chief executive Johannah Christensen.

Maritime decarbonisation alliance Getting to Zero Coalition published a report last year that laid out how a green corridor can be established. The study also suggested green ammonia as an ideal fuel for the proposed Australia-East Asia green corridor.