Greta Thunberg made it to New York emissions-free but the ocean doesn’t yet hold the key to low-carbon travel

In August 2019, Greta Thunberg captured the world’s attention by embarking on a remarkable journey across the Atlantic Ocean from Plymouth, England, to New York City aboard the zero-emission racing yacht Malizia II. Her voyage symbolized a poignant statement about the urgent need to address climate change and the possibility of low-carbon travel by sea. However, while Thunberg’s journey was a remarkable feat, it also highlighted the current limitations and challenges associated with relying solely on ocean travel as a sustainable alternative to high-emission transportation methods such as air travel.

Thunberg’s decision to sail across the Atlantic was rooted in her commitment to reducing her carbon footprint. By choosing a zero-emission vessel, she aimed to demonstrate that it is possible to travel long distances without contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. The journey aboard Malizia II was not only a personal challenge for Thunberg but also a powerful symbol of individual action in the fight against climate change.

The success of Thunberg’s emissions-free voyage garnered widespread attention and sparked discussions about the potential of low-carbon travel by sea. Proponents of maritime transportation as a sustainable alternative often point to the fact that ships have a lower carbon footprint per kilometer traveled compared to airplanes. Additionally, advancements in technology have led to the development of hybrid and fully electric ships, further reducing emissions from maritime transport.

However, despite these advancements, the ocean does not yet hold the key to widespread low-carbon travel. Several factors contribute to the limitations of relying solely on maritime transportation for long-distance journeys. Firstly, the infrastructure required to support large-scale emissions-free shipping is still in its infancy. While there are initiatives to develop ports equipped with charging stations for electric vessels, significant investments and regulatory changes are needed to facilitate the widespread adoption of zero-emission ships.

Furthermore, the speed and reliability of sea travel pose significant challenges for certain types of journeys. While sailing across the Atlantic may be feasible for individuals like Thunberg who prioritize sustainability over convenience, it is not a practical option for many travelers with time constraints. Ocean voyages are significantly slower than air travel, making them less attractive for business and leisure travelers who value speed and efficiency.

Moreover, the feasibility of low-carbon sea travel is heavily dependent on geographical factors. While sailing across the Atlantic may be relatively straightforward during certain times of the year, navigating other oceanic routes can be far more challenging and unpredictable. Weather patterns, ocean currents, and other environmental factors can impact the safety and efficiency of maritime transport, leading to longer journey times and increased risks.

Additionally, the shipping industry itself faces numerous challenges in transitioning to low-carbon technologies. The majority of the world’s merchant fleet still relies on traditional fossil fuels such as heavy fuel oil, which contribute to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. While there are efforts to develop alternative fuels such as biofuels and hydrogen, scaling up production and infrastructure for these fuels remains a significant barrier.

It is also essential to consider the broader implications of relying solely on maritime transportation for long-distance travel. Shipping activities can have adverse environmental impacts, including marine pollution, habitat destruction, and disturbances to marine ecosystems. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive strategies that go beyond simply reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

In conclusion, while Greta Thunberg’s emissions-free voyage across the Atlantic was a powerful symbol of individual action in the fight against climate change, it also highlighted the current limitations of low-carbon travel by sea. While maritime transportation has the potential to play a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from long-distance travel, significant challenges remain in terms of infrastructure, speed, reliability, and environmental sustainability. Achieving widespread adoption of zero-emission shipping will require concerted efforts from governments, industry stakeholders, and the international community to overcome these barriers and realize the vision of a truly sustainable maritime transport system.