Hapag-Lloyd has reduced its CO2 emissions by 50% compared to 2008
Significant reductions in CO2 emissions per container transported and a successful conversion of the vessel fleet to operate using low-sulphur fuel oil are some of the key advances Hapag-Lloyd made in the 2019 financial year in terms of its sustainability strategy, according to its 2019 sustainability report.
“Sustainability is more than just climate protection, as it also comprises ecological, economic, social and qualitative concerns. In 2019, we made a lot of progress in all four dimensions. We further reduced our CO2 emissions, strengthened our social commitment and made huge investments in the quality of our service,” said Hapag Lloyd chief executive Rolf Habben Jansen. “This year – 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.”
Compared to 2008, the carrier has reduced its specific CO2 emissions – meaning CO2 emissions per TEU/km – by 50%. There have also been improvements when it comes to air quality. Since the beginning of the year, approximately 95% of Hapag-Lloyd’s vessels have been operating using low-sulphur fuel oils, which emits over 70% less sulphur oxides than the heavy fuel oil previously in use.
In the current year, Hapag-Lloyd will take more steps on the path towards the decarbonisation of ocean-going shipping. Hapag-Lloyd will be the first shipping company in the world to start converting a large container ship to operate using a more climate-friendly LNG propulsion system. The conversion work on Sajir is expected to commence in Q4 2020. In addition, Hapag-Lloyd will continue to work on alternative fuel solutions. An initial test using a biofuel based on used cooking oil was launched at the beginning of the year.
“Our 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 – along on this journey. Sustainability is a common task, and it can only be achieved together with strong partners,” said Hapag-Lloyd senior director sustainability management Jörg Erdmann. Hapag-Lloyd has entered into collaborative efforts with scientific and research organisations such as the Hapag-Lloyd Centre for Shipping and Global Logistics at the Kühne Logistics University in Hamburg.
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