Vale Unveils First Ethanol-Powered Mega Bulk Carriers

Brazilian mining giant Vale is pushing the boundaries of maritime decarbonization with plans to deploy the world’s first ocean-going vessel powered primarily by ethanol—a move that could slash greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90%.

The company announced it has signed an agreement with Shandong Shipping Corporation to build a new generation of “Guaibamax” bulk carriers, marking the first time ethanol will be used as the main fuel on a deep-sea vessel. The first ship is expected to enter service in 2029.

The vessels will be massive by any standard—stretching 340 meters in length with a carrying capacity of 325,000 tonnes—and will feature