The future of net-zero carbon emission fuel for the maritime sector is coming. High-risk ports could be the sites for future ammonia release tests that will inform preparedness and response.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) has conducted a market research survey to assess hazards associated with alternative fuel production, storage and transport at U.S. ports.

According to the survey, by 2050, the global production of ammonia could double, if not triple, due to its potential as a net-zero carbon emission alternative to fossil fuels. After Singapore pioneered ammonia bunkering (filling a ship’s fuel tank), the American Bureau of Shipping has taken the first step to develop bunkering in the U.S. While this is an exciting development, storage and handling and the production plants’ proximity to ports increase the risks of large-scale spills of toxic ammonia gas—endangering workers, nearby communities and the environment.

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