Germanischer Lloyd launches CO2 index

Germanischer Lloyd launches CO2 index Germanischer Lloyd has launched a prototype CO2 index so that ship owners and managers can measure the carbon emissions of their GL-classed fleet.
   The classification society said CO2 emission will be measured on the basis of installed power, consumed fuel and transported cargo. With carbon emission factors specified by the International Maritime Organization, the CO2 index is calculated for each voyage and later averaged for a still to be defined period. GL said that a year might be practical. At the end of the period, a GL surveyor will check the recorded data and issue on behalf of a flag state a certified CO2 index valid for the next period.
   GL said it hopes a comparison of CO2 indices across owners’ fleet will trigger a better understanding of the differences in fuel consumption.
   “With certified CO2-index values becoming public, the transport industry can actively further minimize emissions. Ships with a low index will transport more cargo and improve their index even further,” GL said.