Danish ferry and logistics operator DFDS has developed a climate action plan with the goal of reducing emissions by 45% by 2030 and becoming carbon neutral by 2050
The three-track plan consists of adapting vessels -- both for short- and long-term reductions -- and addressing the company’s non-vessel emissions.
DFDS said the short-term tonnage adaptation plan consists of initiatives that will be implemented over the next decade. These will include minor technical upgrades, such as using the correct coatings on vessel hulls and decision support systems. But the fleet will also undergo more significant upgrades, such as modifying bulbs and propellers.
The long-term tonnage adaptation plan focuses on the company’s new generation of ships and replacing fossil fuels with zero-emissions fuels (ammonia, hydrogen or methanol). DFDS is looking for projects and partnerships to help generate and share knowledge in these areas.
To address emissions not generated by vessel-related activities, DFDS will look at measures such as electric trucks, lowering energy consumption for buildings and using hybrid-electric company cars.
The company said many of these initiatives would be carried out in cooperation with key suppliers to reduce environmental impact.
DFDS chief executive Torben Carlsen said the plan will “help us stay relevant as a service provider in 10, 15, 50 years from now. With the support of every one of our employees, we will be able to turn this plan into reality and at the same time continue our existing efforts to support the environment and local communities".
In 2019, the company emitted approximately two million tonnes of CO2, of which 90% came from vessels. DFDS is aiming for a 45% reduction in its greenhouse gas emissions levels by 2030 (from 2008 levels). That corresponds to an approximate reduction of 25-35% between 2019 and 2030. The company said its executive management team will track progress quarterly.
DFDS is also a member of the Green Ship of the Future Retrofit Series project, which seeks to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by optimising existing vessels.
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