Barcelona has welcomed this week the CMA CGM Palais Royal, the liquefied natural gas (LNG) powered colossus of the seas.
This vessel, the world’s largest of its kind, has berthed at the port’s Hutchison Ports Best terminal, marking a milestone in the shipping industry and underscoring Barcelona’s position as a leading port in sustainability.
With an impressive transport capacity of 23,000 containers, the CMA CGM Palais Royal stands out not only for its colossal proportions, but also for its contribution to reducing emissions.
This 400-meter-long, 61-meter-wide behemoth is part of the new generation of ships built after 2020, setting new records in container carrying capacity.
CMA CGM Palais Royal arrives in Barcelona
Most notable about this vessel is its choice of fuel: liquefied natural gas (LNG). Considered a transition fuel to green energy, LNG has proven to be a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels.
Compared to the latter, LNG reduces sulfur emissions by 100%, nitrogen oxide emissions by 80% and overall contributes to a 25% decrease in CO₂ emissions.
The Port of Barcelona has been at the forefront of maritime sustainability, implementing strategies such as On Shore Power (OPS).
This initiative allows ships, such as the CMA CGM Palais Royal, to connect to the electrical grid while at berth, further reducing emissions and demonstrating Hutchison Ports Best Terminal’s commitment to sustainability.
Sustainable navigation
Sustainability is a cornerstone of the Port of Barcelona’s strategy, which seeks to promote sustainable supply chains. With a focus on caring for the planet, people and promoting ethical and sustainable business practices, the port seeks to decarbonize port activity and indirect emissions.
Tangible fuel savings and emissions reductions” are expected to be achieved as a result of these initiatives beginning in January.
This event not only highlights Barcelona’s ability to host the world’s largest and most sustainable ships, but also underscores the importance of the maritime industry in the transition to more environmentally friendly practices.
Barcelona now stands out as a leading port in sustainability, welcoming ships that not only impress with their size, but also with their commitment to a greener future. It is a terminal at the forefront in the adoption of cleaner technologies.
The Port is committed to the decarbonization of port activity and indirect emissions, generating substantial benefits for shipping companies by reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions during the stay of ships in port.
