How shipping industry is trying to clean up its biggest, dirtiest problem

A 2022 report concluded container ships can reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 14% per voyage if they optimize their speeds

Singapore-based BW LPG goes about its business differently than many shipowners. If during a vessel’s passage it becomes clear that a berth won’t be free upon arrival at port, the ship will simply slow down so it shows up when there’s room.

By not being forced to wait for days or weeks at a time, fuel is saved and emissions avoided—since these massive ships can’t just power down at anchor. Last year, the strategy equated to more than 500 metric tons of unburned fuel, according to BW Vice President and Head of Operations Prodyut Banerjee.

Known as “virtual arrivals,” this