Hapag-Lloyd has achieved a cut to its CO2 emissions (per TEU/kilometre) by 50% in the 2019 financial year, compared to the previous year, according to its 2019 sustainability report.
“In 2019, we succeeded in making a lot of progress in all dimensions,” commented CEO Rolf Habben Jansen. “For example, we further reduced our specific CO2 emissions, strengthened our social commitment and made huge investments in the quality of our service.”
Hapag-Lloyd claimed it will support the International Maritime Organization (IMO) vision for further decarbonisation of ocean-going shipping, being the first shipping company to start converting a large container ship to operate using a more climate-friendly liquid natural gas (LNG) propulsion system. The Hamburg-based company expects that the conversion work on the container vessel “Sajir” to commence in the fourth quarter of 2020.
CMA CGM has also invested in LNG-powered fleet. In September 2019, the French shipping firm announced the launching of the first 23,000TEU ship from a mega-order of nine LNG-powered container vessels.
However, there are many industry voices that are fighting LNG use, as they believe that some LNG-fuelled vessels will suffer from methane slip, where the potent global warming gas is released into the atmosphere through the exhaust.
Hapag-Lloyd also mentioned in its report that it has been well-prepared for the new IMO2020 regulations, that have been in force since 1 January 2020. The German carrier has made all the necessary conversions to its fleet with approximately 95% of its vessels operating on low-sulphur fuel oils, which emit over 70% less sulphur oxides than the heavy fuel oil.
In addition, Hapag-Lloyd said it will continue to work on alternative fuel solutions, such as the biofuel based on used cooking oil test that was launched at the beginning of the year.
“Sustainability is more than just climate protection, as it also comprises ecological, economic, social and qualitative concerns in equal measure,” commented Hapag-Lloyd’s CEO, Rolf Habben Jansen.
Hapag-Lloyd has entered into collaborative efforts with scientific and research organisations, such as in the context of the Hapag-Lloyd Center for Shipping and Global Logistics (CSGL) at the Kühne Logistics University in Hamburg, according to the report.
Jörg Erdmann, senior director sustainability management, says that, “Hapag-Lloyd’s sustainability measures also take into account the well-being of future generations. This makes it all the more important to bring all relevant parties – our employees, customers and shareholders, too – along on this journey. Sustainability is a common task, and it can only be achieved together with strong partners.”
The German operator added it will keep focusing on its digital evolution and on further emission reductions. “This year, as well – despite the adverse effects of the Covid-19 crisis – we will continue to focus on additional improvements, including technological and digital innovations as well as further reductions in the emissions of our fleet,” stated Rolf Habben Jansen.
“Sustainability is a marathon rather than a 100m sprint. Given this fact, the issue will remain on our strategic agenda for the long term and be given high priority – also and especially in 2020, which has been an unusual year for all of us.”
Antonis Karamalegkos
Editor
