Babcock International Group’s LGE division has secured an approval in principle (AiP) from classification society Lloyd’s Register (LR) for its onboard carbon capture solution, known as ecoCPTR.
The approval was formally announced at a maritime industry event in Milan, Italy, underscoring the growing momentum behind carbon reduction technologies for shipping.
The ecoCPTR system combines two proven technologies: Aqualung’s membrane-based carbon dioxide capture and separation method, and Babcock’s own ecoCO2 system, which is engineered for both newbuild vessels and retrofit projects.
According to the company, this integrated solution offers significant environmental benefits and operational flexibility, making it a strong candidate to support the maritime sector’s transition to lower-emission operations.
Onboard Carbon Capture as a Transition Technology
Onboard carbon capture systems (OCCS) are increasingly viewed as an important bridge for shipping’s decarbonization journey. While alternative fuels such as green methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen remain constrained by limited production and infrastructure, OCCS allows existing ships to continue using conventional fuels while cutting emissions.
The technology can capture as much as 90% of carbon dioxide emissions from engine exhaust, potentially extending the lifespan of the current fleet while helping operators meet tightening environmental regulations. This makes OCCS particularly appealing in an industry characterized by slow fleet turnover.
Industry observers, including the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD), see OCCS as a tool that could give shipowners a compliance advantage under the International Maritime Organization’s Net Zero Framework.
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However, GCMD also highlights ongoing challenges, such as added operating costs from fuel penalties, chemical replenishment, manpower needs, and equipment maintenance. Another hurdle is the lack of port infrastructure worldwide to offload and store captured carbon efficiently.
Neale Campbell, Managing Director of Babcock LGE, emphasized that the AiP reflects not only technological progress but also the company’s commitment to innovation, noting Babcock’s recent investment in Aqualung’s funding round.
With industry interest in OCCS growing, the ecoCPTR solution is positioned to play a role in accelerating near-term decarbonization across global shipping.
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