This November, COP30 attendees witness several pioneering vessels powered by green hydrogen and ammonia, signaling Brazil’s strategic push toward decarbonizing the shipping sector and redefining sustainable tourism. Among the highlights is the debut of Latin America’s first 100% hydrogen-powered boat, the “BotoH2,” launched by Itaipu Binacional in partnership with Itaipu Parquetec. This aluminum vessel, designed with integrated solar panels and fuel cells, silently navigates the waters of Belém without emissions other than water, supporting waste collection efforts in the city’s riverine islands.
Complementing this local innovation is the JAQ H1, the world’s first hydrogen fuel cell-powered tourism boat, revealed by the Ministry of Tourism and developed through a partnership between Grupo Náutica, Itaipu Parquetec, and GWM Hydrogen-FTXT. The 36-meter vessel operates entirely on green hydrogen, with onboard systems including lighting, cooking, and entertainment powered cleanly and silently. Anchored at Estação das Docas, JAQ H1 serves as a model for sustainable mobility and a floating hub for climate and tourism discussions throughout the conference.
Further showcasing Brazil’s ambition, Australian energy giant Fortescue introduced the Green Pioneer, a 75-meter vessel globally recognized as the first to sail internationally on green ammonia. Arriving at Belém’s Porto do Futuro during COP30, the ship’s journey included stops in London, Rotterdam, Monaco, Boston, and New York, highlighting the potential for Brazil to become a global supplier of green ammonia for maritime transport fuel. Fortescue’s ongoing plans include a final investment decision for a green ammonia plant in Ceará, projected for 2026, strengthening Brazil’s leading role in clean fuel production.
To accommodate an influx of more than 50,000 delegates, the recently revamped Porto de Outeiro in Belém has been transformed into a state-of-the-art terminal capable of receiving large cruise ships functioning as floating hotels. Two transatlantic liners, MSC Seaview and Costa Diadema, offering nearly 6,000 beds combined, arrived in early November after significant infrastructure investments exceeding R$ 233 million, funded partly by Itaipu Binacional. The expanded port now features a 716-meter pier, enhanced berthing facilities, and a passenger reception center, enabling seamless transit to the conference venue via dedicated bus lanes.
Despite COP30’s emphasis on clean energy innovation, the event occurs amid ongoing tensions regarding fossil fuel exploration in the region. Petrobras received environmental licensing and initiated drilling operations at the Block 59 site off the Amapá coast, a decision underscored by logistical adjustments such as shifting support flights from Belém to Macapá during November to reduce interference with conference activities. This expansion of fossil fuel extraction underlines the complex balancing act Brazil faces between economic interests and climate commitments.
The hydrogen-powered initiatives in Belém mark a significant step toward reducing maritime carbon footprints and advancing clean energy applications in the Amazon region. With nearly two decades of research behind these projects, Brazilian institutions and private sector players are demonstrating the viability of hydrogen as a future fuel for maritime transport. The technology’s efficiency advantage and zero emissions make it a cornerstone for sustainable development, especially in sensitive ecological regions.
COP30 in Belém thus becomes not only a diplomatic milestone but also a practical demonstration zone for transitioning maritime transport and tourism into a cleaner era, further positioning Brazil as a leader in the global hydrogen economy.
—
**Primary
This article was curated and published as part of our South American energy market coverage.
