One of the world’s largest cruise lines launches first ever ‘green’ cargo ship

One of the world’s biggest cruise lines, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) has launched the Prima Verde, the world’s first ‘green’ cargo ship powered by a wind propulsion system.  

Delivered on 30 January 2025 at Onomichi Dockyard, Japan, the multi-purpose vessel is designed to lead the shift toward sustainable shipping.

Operated by MOL Drybulk Ltd. and owned by Daishin Shipping Co., Ltd., the Prima Verde sets a new standard for environmentally conscious maritime transport.

The first eco-friendly cargo vessel

The Prima Verde is the first multi-purpose ship globally to combine green steel materials, an engine running only on marine gas oil (MGO), and a wind-assisted propulsion system.

These technologies reduce the vessel’s emissions, aligning with MOL’s Environmental Vision 2.2, which aims at net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050.

Its hull is built using JGreeX, a green steel material supplied by JFE Steel Corporation. This material reduces CO2 emissions during steel manufacturing, making it an essential component in the vessel’s sustainable design.

The Prima Verde’s high-efficiency engine developed by Japan Engine Corporation runs solely on MGO, minimizing harmful carbon emissions.

Furthermore, the vessel has VentoFoil wind-assisted propulsion devices from ECONOWIND. These devices harness wind energy to increase the ship’s power, boosting fuel efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Prima Verde is built for versatile operations and it measures 129.66 meters long and has a cargo capacity of 17,611 tons. It can be used for many purposes, including transporting steel products, construction machinery, and bulk cargo.

A major step toward sustainable shipping

The launch of Prima Verde marks a major milestone in the maritime industry’s push for sustainability.

By integrating advanced green technologies, MOL is taking a bold step toward reducing carbon emissions in global shipping.

As the demand for cleaner transport solutions grows, Prima Verde stands as a model for the future of eco-friendly maritime operations.