Lee Beck
11 de febrero de 2026
How ‘slow steaming’ reduces emissions from shipping
This video is part of: Centro para la Naturaleza y el Clima
As the shipping industry hopes to move closer to its goal of zero net emissions by 2050 by 'slow steaming', geopolitical tensions threaten these efforts. Learn more about First Mover's Coalition, World Economic Forum's initiative to reduce industrial carbon emissions.
Slow steaming involves ships cutting their speed to conserve fuel. It began in the early 2000s as a response to rising bunker fuel prices. Since its inception, slow steaming has evolved beyond a cost-cutting measure. It is now seen as a way to make shipping more sustainable.
Slow steaming and net-zero emissions
The shipping sector has set an ambitious target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Slow steaming is expected to be a key driver in reaching this goal, alongside the development and adoption of new technologies like alternative shipping fuels.
However, recent challenges have emerged. Due to conflicts in the Middle East, many ships are opting for detours around South Africa, raising emissions 31-66% per trip. To meet schedules, some ships speed up, adding 14% more emissions per extra knot.
How the First Movers Coalition is leading the charge
The World Economic Forum's First Movers Coalition is a critical initiative in the fight against industrial carbon emissions. Members of this coalition have pledged to source 5% of their fuel from zero-emission alternatives by 2030.
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