# DNV and Partners Advance Low-Pressure CO₂ Transport Initiative
DNV, Equinor and TotalEnergies have launched the second phase of the CETO (CO2 Efficiently Transported via Ocean) joint industry project, marking a significant step toward establishing reliable maritime infrastructure for carbon dioxide transport. The collaborative initiative aims to systematically de-risk the low-pressure CO₂ transport chain, with phase two concentrating on CO₂ composition variables that could impact vessel operations and safety protocols.
The project addresses a critical gap in maritime decarbonisation infrastructure. As nations and industries pursue carbon capture and storage (CCS) strategies, ocean transport represents a viable solution for moving captured CO₂ from emitters to permanent storage sites or utilisation facilities. However, shipping CO₂ at low pressure presents unique technical and operational challenges distinct from conventional cargo handling, requiring comprehensive validation before widespread commercial deployment.
The advancement to phase two signals growing confidence within major energy operators that maritime CO₂ transport is technically feasible and economically viable. Successful de-risking of the transport chain could unlock substantial capacity for moving captured carbon, particularly for industrial clusters where pipeline infrastructure is impractical. For ship operators and classification societies, this development underscores the importance of establishing robust standards and operational guidelines for a new cargo class that may become commonplace in the shipping industry’s low-carbon transition.