Michelin opts for carbon-free logistics with Neoline

The agreement was described as a test initiative to help decarbonise Michelin’s logistics operations. The company’s sites are committed to achieving zero CO₂ emissions by 2050.

Following the agreement, Michellin will transport its pneumatic tires on a transatlantic pilot line operated by Neoline between Halifax in Canada and Montoir de Bretagne in France by 2023. The route will also serve the archipelago of Saint Pierre, Miquelon and Baltimore in the United States.

Neoline said it provides carbon-free shipping services, relying on clean and renewable wind energy to power its cargo ships. The company estimates its service will help reduce carbon emissions produced by transatlantic maritime freight transport by 90%.

The Group’s supply chain director Martin Huet said the partnership will contribute to reducing CO₂ emissions from logistics by 15% in absolute terms between 2018 and 2030.

Neoline president Jean Zanuttini said “We are honoured to welcome on board the Michelin Group, an emblematic French player strongly committed to innovation and sustainable mobility. This first commitment concerns eastbound flow [from the Americas to Europe] and comes in addition to an already well-filled orderbook westbound [from Europe to the Americas]. With our sailing cargo ships, we are developing a mode of transport that is more environmentally friendly, adapted to the current economic and logistical reality of shippers and not dependent on fossil fuels.”

The shipowner plans to open its transatlantic line with a first vessel operating in 2023 and a second vessel following a year later. "With our partners, we are currently working on options to start constructing our first vessel as soon as possible” said Mr Zanuttini.

The Michelin Group will gradually entrust Neoline with at least 50% of the group’s containers transported on this line.