LNG isn't such a 'green' fuel, is it?

IT IS not often I find myself agreeing with campaign group Transport & Environment (T&E). But I have to say it has a point, to an extent, when it argues that natural gas is a "US$22 billion distraction for European Union (EU) shipping that won't decarbonise the sector".

T&E had commissioned an independent EU-focused study, done by the UMAS consultancy, which notes that Europe has so far spent US$500,000,000 on LNG infrastructure for refuelling ships; it also notes that LNG bunkering infrastructure for shipping in Europe will eventually cost US$22 billion and deliver, at best, a 6 per cent reduction in ship greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, compared to the diesel it will replace.

The findings are relevant beyond Europe. LNG bunkering projects are underway around the world, including in Singapore.