Summary
Europe’s innovative CO2 storage vessels represent a significant advancement in combating climate change, aimed at transporting liquid CO2 for deep-sea burial. This project, led by Ineos Energy and Wagenborg, can store up to 400,000 tonnes of CO2 annually in the North Sea, showcasing how clean energy innovation can mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
The Greensand Project utilizes specialized vessels, distinct from traditional cargo ships, to transport liquefied carbon dioxide captured from industrial sources to geological layers below the seabed in Denmark. Brought to life with a launch event on May 14, 2025, at the Royal Neater Thunder Shipyard, it marks Europe’s commitment to pioneering carbon capture and storage.
This initiative signifies a fully operational industrial process in carbon capture, with a complete management chain involving cooling, compressing, and safely injecting CO2 into depleted oil reservoirs. Advanced engineering ensures safe transport, managing risks like acid corrosion and cargo stability.
Financially supported by over 140 million euros, the project aims to make Denmark a leader in carbon storage through reclaimed oil fields and public support for carbon management. Although the initial capacity of 400,000 tonnes is modest compared to European emissions, plans are in place to expand to 8 million tonnes by 2030.
Greensand distinguishes itself by connecting land-based carbon capture with marine storage, a model mirrored by similar projects like Aurora in Norway. Overall, Europe’s strategic vision views CO2 as manageable waste, reinforcing its commitment to innovative solutions that balance industrial needs with environmental responsibility.
