For a group of 100 young students and migrants in Trinidad and Tobago, the global conversation about clean energy became real when they stepped aboard the Green Pioneer, one of the world’s first demonstration vessels powered by ammonia as a zero-carbon maritime fuel.
The visit offered a rare opportunity to see emerging clean-energy technology up close and to understand how innovation in shipping could help address climate change.
Made possible through collaboration with Fortescue, the global green technology and energy company behind the vessel, and support from the Republic Bank Power to Make a Difference Programme (PMAD), the tour brought young people face-to-face with one of the most promising technologies in the global transition to cleaner energy.
For many participants, it was their first time stepping onto a vessel of this scale, and their first exposure to how alternative fuels could power the ships that move more than 80% of global trade.
What they discovered sparked conversations that went far beyond ships or fuel, touching on climate responsibility, future careers, and the role young Caribbean people can play in building a more sustainable world.
DISCOVERING CLEANER SHIPPING
During the tour, students explored the systems that allow ammonia to be safely stored, monitored, and delivered to a ship’s engines. They learned how ammonia can serve as a cleaner maritime fuel, producing no carbon dioxide when burned, and why innovations like the Green Pioneer are being developed as part of the shipping industry’s efforts to reduce emissions.
For Adrian, 16, of St. Francis Boys’ College, seeing the systems firsthand sparked a deeper curiosity about a career in engineering, and how complex technologies can be designed to make alternative fuels safe.
“The most exciting part for me was learning how engineers addressed the safety challenges of ammonia fuel by designing systems with sensors, gas detection, automated valves, and control systems to prevent leaks.”
For Zehira-Marie, 19, a student at the University of the West Indies, the visit made the environmental possibilities of cleaner shipping feel tangible.
“Visiting the Green Pioneer vessel shows how modern maritime operations can significantly reduce environmental impact through the use of cleaner fuels via green ammonia. It proves that environmentally responsible shipping is achievable.”
Meanwhile, Jeliannys, 17, a migrant participant with the Heroes Foundation, was struck by how quickly the future of shipping may be changing.
“I was surprised to learn that ships can one day soon operate without relying on traditional fuels like gasoline and coal. This vessel is leading the way because it shows that cleaner energy solutions are possible for the shipping industry.”
CONNECTING GLOBAL INNOVATION TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
The visit also sparked discussion about Trinidad and Tobago’s potential role in the evolving global energy landscape.
As one of the world’s leading producers of ammonia, the country already has the industrial capacity and expertise that could support the emerging market for green ammonia, produced using renewable energy.
For Gabrielle, 21, a student at the University of the West Indies, the experience helped connect the global push for cleaner fuels with Trinidad and Tobago’s own industrial strengths.
“As an ammonia producer, Trinidad and Tobago can explore supplying green ammonia as a new economic pathway. The vessel has proven that using alternative fuel sources to power ships is not only possible, but safe.”
For Ismael, 15, the tour reinforced how technological innovation can help protect the environment while advancing industry.
“I learned the importance of using technologies that reduce environmental impact in the maritime sector. This ship stands out to me for its innovative systems that reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency.”
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION
Young people came from communities across Trinidad and Tobago to experience the Green Pioneer firsthand – including Diego Martin, Port of Spain, Arima, Chaguanas, San Fernando, Siparia, Point Fortin, and Mayaro.
They represented institutions including the Heroes Foundation, Siparia West Secondary School, St. Francis Boys’ College, Diego Martin North Secondary School, the University of Trinidad and Tobago, and the University of the West Indies.
Survey responses collected after the visit gave the experience an average rating of 4.6 out of 5, with most participants awarding full marks for the new knowledge, engagement, and real-world relevance it provided.
Yet beyond the numbers, what stood out most clearly was the sense of possibility the experience created.
Opportunities like this help young people connect education with real industries and global challenges, particularly for those from communities where exposure to emerging technologies is limited.
Seeing innovations like the Green Pioneer in action helped participants understand that the transition to cleaner energy will require engineers, innovators, policymakers, and leaders from the next generation.
When young people can see innovation up close, the future stops feeling distant. It becomes something they know they can help build. And for the students and migrants who stepped aboard the Green Pioneer, that future has already begun.
