ClassNK handbook guides onboard carbon capture for 2026 ships
A new handbook from ClassNK offers shipowners and maritime stakeholders a structured approach to implementing onboard carbon capture systems, addressing technical, logistical, and regulatory challenges in a single resource.
The Onboard Carbon Capture Systems Implementation Framework, released on 24 October 2026, expands ClassNK’s Handbook on Ship GHG Emissions Evaluation series. The publication provides practical guidance for evaluating and deploying systems that capture carbon dioxide from vessel exhaust, process it, and store it temporarily at sea.
The maritime sector is exploring multiple strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including operational optimizations, energy-efficient technologies, and alternative fuels. Onboard carbon capture has emerged as a complementary solution, with international demonstration projects and regulatory discussions advancing in recent years.
ClassNK’s handbook emphasizes that effective implementation requires more than installing capture equipment. It outlines the full value chain, from onboard CO₂ collection to offloading, transportation, and final storage or utilization. The document also details mechanisms for quantifying and verifying emissions reductions, including Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) protocols and Chain of Custody (CoC) systems to track captured carbon and its associated data.
Comprehensive guidance for stakeholders: onboard carbon capture
The handbook consolidates ClassNK’s expertise in this field, building on its Guidelines for Onboard CO₂ Capture and Storage Systems and experience in GHG certification services. It synthesizes technical, infrastructure, regulatory, and emissions-assessment considerations into a single framework, enabling stakeholders to evaluate OCCS projects holistically.
Designed to facilitate discussions among shipowners, operators, and other parties, the resource aims to clarify the complexities of OCCS adoption. ClassNK has positioned the handbook as part of its broader support for the maritime industry’s decarbonization efforts.
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