Norwegian start-up Viridis Bulk Carriers is on track to order the world’s first ammonia-fuelled bulkers this year.

The company is a joint venture between Norwegian shipowner Mosvolds Rederi and its green shipping spin-off Amon Maritime, in partnership with Faroese owner Navigare Logistics.

Shortsea charters are in place with seven cargo owners for the initial five 5,000-dwt carriers.

Amon Maritime founder and chief executive Andre Risholm told TradeWinds: “Of course, the ambitions are larger than that in time.”