Recent environmental programs instituted by CMA CGM and multiple purchases of environmentally friendly vessels by Maersk further demonstrate the importance the industry is putting on being environmentally conscious.
Emissions goals and laws, sailing speed regulations, and access to modern equipment that has the potential to promote clean transportation are industry-wide initiatives that positively impact carriers, shippers, and third-party providers across the board. Many in the industry are already following CMA CGM and Maersk’s lead by expanding their environmental focus, and many more are eager to leverage climate conscious solutions.
“As more and more organizations are looking to curb their carbon footprints and ensure the industry isn’t doing unnecessary damage to the environment, this issue has become one of the most important concerns in the industry,” said Anthony Fullbrook, president of OEC Group’s North East Region. “With our sector evolving so quickly, many leaders have not only realized how important a clean environment is to our industry, but they’ve also understood that there are substantial financial benefits. In turn, significant investments are being made to ensure that we’re all working toward cleaner oceans to sail on and cleaner air to fly through.”
Currently, liquid natural gas (LNG), biofuels, and ammonia are setting themselves apart as leading alternative fuel options in our industry. LNG is gaining popularity due to its ability to produce more energy per ton than traditional fossil fuels, while ammonia is being considered because of its low environmental impact. Biofuels are commonly used because they can be easily blended with low sulfur bunker fuel to adhere to new emissions guidelines.
“As of now, alternative fuel sailings make up a very small portion of available capacity. However, there are opportunities for any shipper concerned with the environment to secure space on a greener vessel,” said Lynn Stacy, Managing Director of OEC Group’s Liquid Logistics Solution (LLS) division. “Any shipper looking to have a greener supply chain should be working with a logistics provider who can identify and book their cargo on the most environmentally friendly vessels. In the end, the more shippers that demand their cargo be transported on greener vessels, the faster those vessels will be built, thus ensuring a more sustainable future for all.”