Scotland’s New 'Green' Ferry Emits More Carbon Than Diesel Predecessor

The Glen Sannox, designed to reduce emissions with LNG technology, has a 35% larger carbon footprint than the older MV Caledonian Isles, raising questions about its environmental claims.

• The MV Glen Sannox, a dual-fuel ferry using LNG and marine gas oil, will emit 10,391 tonnes of CO2 annually compared to 7,732 tonnes for its diesel-powered predecessor, the MV Caledonian Isles.
• Methane leakage, or 'methane slip,' from LNG engines and the carbon cost of transporting LNG from Kent contribute significantly to the ferry’s emissions.
• The Glen Sannox was commissioned as a transition to greener technologies, but experts suggest its environmental benefits are negligible and may even be worse than diesel in some scenarios.
• The ferry's increased size and capacity for 127 cars, compared to 90 on its predecessor, require larger engines, leading to higher fuel consumption and emissions.
• The project faced years of delays, massive cost overruns from £97 million to over £400 million, and criticism over design decisions, prompting calls for Scotland to explore alternative technologies like electric or hydrogen-powered ferries.

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