Japanese shipping company NYK Line has achieved third-party certification for environmental credits generated by its ammonia-fuelled tugboat Sakigake, marking the first time such validation has been obtained for an ammonia-powered vessel's operations.

Shin Nippon Kaiyosha obtained the certification on September 25 for environmental value representing quantified greenhouse gas emissions reduced through towage services provided by the vessel in Yokohama port.

The certified environmental credits can be allocated to purchasers through the Book & Claim method, which contribute to reducing Scope 3 emissions for transportation service users. Under this system, GHG reduction amounts from services using low-carbon fuels are third-party certified, with the reduction value allocated to purchasers who can claim it as their own emissions reduction.

Sakigake was selected in October 2021 as part of NEDO's Green Innovation Fund project for developing ships with ammonia-fuelled domestic engines. The vessel is said to be the world's first ammonia-fuelled vessel developed for commercial use.

The tugboat is powered by 'ECOANN' ammonia manufactured by Resonac Corporation and supplied by Jera Co., Ltd. Since completing construction in August 2024, Sakigake has been providing tugboat services in Yokohama port.

NYK said it will continue developing a fuel ammonia value chain and advancing decarbonization within the shipping and marine industries. This includes development of an ammonia-fuelled medium gas carrier scheduled for completion in November 2026.

ECOANN fuel is produced by Resonac using post-consumer plastics as part of the raw materials, which the company says contributes to waste reduction and establishing a circular economy.