MSC commits to regular biofuels usage to reduce emissions

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Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) is committing to using biofuel blends following trials earlier this year.

The world’s second largest container line said that it would start using “responsibly sourced” biofuels on a regular basis when bunkering vessels in Rotterdam.

The company trialled using biofuels with minimal 10% blended fuels and has now increased this to 30% with the line seeing a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.

“We are pleased to see these trials completed successfully and look forward to now using biofuel on our vessels as a routine matter. When using such blended fuel, we can expect an estimated 15-20% reduction in absolute CO2 emissions,” said Bud Darr, executive vice president, Maritime Policy & Government Affairs, MSC Group.

“The potential CO2 reduction in the bio component of these fuels could reach 80-90%, which we will monitor and confirm over time.”

MSC becomes the first major container line to commit to regularly using biofuels, although both its top three rivals – Maersk and CMA CGM – have also trialled the use of biofuels. In the dredging sector Boskalis is aiming to fuel a vessel using 100% biofuels.

The are one of a number of methods the industry is trying to reduce CO2 emissions to meet the IMO 2030 and 2050 targets.

“MSC’s decision to use biofuel is complementary to the company’s broader strategic approach to sustainability.  The company remains committed to implementing concrete plans to modernise its green and efficient fleet via the largest container shipping investment program in the industry,” MSC said.