In what has been called ‘a game-changing move’, Norwegian forestry companies will be the first in the industry to ship timber on zero-emission vessels. This move towards sustainable maritime logistics will begin in 2027 with Viken AT Market and AT Skog. Skarv Shipping will provide vessels powered by ammonia and electricity, significantly reducing emissions compared to conventional diesel-powered ships.
Norway’s timber industry plays a crucial role in the country’s economy, exporting around one million tons of timber annually to European markets. However, most of this transport has relied on traditional diesel-powered vessels. In an effort to push the industry forward, Viken AT Market has secured a long-term shipping agreement with Skarv Shipping and Arriva Shipping.
“We are proud to secure shipping transport using zero-emission technology. With this hybrid vessel, we can provide our customers with more sustainable logistics," says CEO of Viken AT Market, Kjersti Denver.
AT Skog shares this commitment with Hans Erik Røra, Director of Market and Logistics, highlighting the long-term benefits of switching to ammonia-powered ships: “We believe that future increases in CO₂ emission taxes will make ammonia-powered ships a profitable and sustainable alternative.”
While the shipping industry has been exploring low-carbon alternatives, this marks one of the first instances of ammonia-powered vessels being used for timber transport from day one. Ammonia, a fuel that emits no CO₂ when burned, is seen as a key enabler of decarbonised shipping - especially for industries with heavy cargo transport needs.
A major advantage of ammonia is its potential to meet International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2050 climate targets for reducing emissions in the maritime sector. Unlike liquefied natural gas (LNG), which still emits CO₂, ammonia offers a pathway toward true net-zero operations.
Skarv Shipping’s vessel will be a hybrid model, incorporating electric propulsion and shore power to further reduce emissions when docked. They say this combination ensures maximum efficiency at low speeds, making long-haul timber transport not just greener but also economically viable.
One of the biggest challenges of ammonia-powered ships is safety. While ammonia is a clean alternative, it is also a toxic substance, requiring careful handling. Skarv Shipping has collaborated with LMG Marin, Grieg Shipbrokers, and green technology manufacturers to develop advanced safety systems. The vessel’s design integrates:
- strict safety protocols for ammonia storage and handling,
- crew training programs to ensure safe operation, and
- highly advanced onboard safety systems to mitigate potential risks
This initiative is part of a larger push to decarbonise Norway’s coastal fleet. As shipping companies face increasing pressure to reduce emissions, partnerships like the one between Viken AT Market, AT Skog, and Skarv Shipping could serve as a blueprint for other industries seeking to transition to cleaner transport solutions.
