Viking Line to cut emissions by 90%

Viking Line is set to make maritime history with a groundbreaking initiative on the Baltic Sea. For one week, starting August 29, the company’s vessels, Viking Glory and Viking Grace, will operate exclusively on liquefied biogas, marking the debut of the Baltic Sea’s first green shipping corridor. This move is a significant milestone in Viking Line’s commitment to reducing emissions, as the use of biogas will cut the vessels’ carbon dioxide emissions by 90% compared to conventional LNG.

During this week, the environmental impact will be substantial, with an estimated reduction of 2,600 tonnes of greenhouse gases—equivalent to the annual carbon footprint of 270 Finnish residents. This initiative underscores Viking Line’s long-term dedication to sustainability, with the company investing €450 million (US$495 million) in the development of its climate-smart vessels, Viking Grace and Viking Glory. These vessels are designed to run on a range of fuels, including LNG, biofuel, and future synthetic fuels derived from renewable energy sources.

Biofuel reduces the climate impact from a Green Sea Conference by 90 per cent

The use of biogas, produced by Gasum from food and agricultural waste, is a pivotal step in Viking Line’s strategy to enhance environmental responsibility. This week-long operation on biogas not only demonstrates the viability of renewable fuels but also supports the broader goal of establishing carbon-neutral shipping routes. Viking Line’s sustainability manager, Dani Lindberg, highlights that while renewable fuels are currently more expensive and less accessible than LNG, increasing their use is crucial for driving down costs and boosting supply.

Viking Line is also actively working to develop additional green corridors, including routes between Turku and Stockholm and between Helsinki and Tallinn. These corridors are part of the company’s broader efforts to achieve carbon-neutral transport for both cargo and passengers, reflecting a growing commitment to preserving the Baltic Sea’s delicate ecosystem.