Hapag-Lloyd reduces CO2 emissions by 50% in 2019

 “Sustainability is more than just climate protection, as it also comprises ecological, economic, social and qualitative concerns in equal measure. In 2019, we succeeded in making a lot of progress in all four dimensions. For example, we furthered reduced our specific CO2 emissions, strengthened our social commitment and made huge investments in the quality of our service,” said Hapag-Lloyd ceo Rolf Habben Jansen.

 “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.”

Hapag Lloyd succeeded in reducing CO2 emissions per teu/km by 50%, compared to 2018.  Preparing for the so-called IMO 2020 regulations was accordingly one of the main focuses of the 2019 reporting year. Hapag-Lloyd got started with its planning early on and made the necessary conversions to its fleet.

 Since the beginning of the year, approximately 95% of Hapag-Lloyd’s vessels have been operating using low-sulphur fuel oils, which emit 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 oceangoing shipping. To help achieve the goals of IMO 2030 and 2050, 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 liquid natural gas (LNG) propulsion system. The conversion work on the Sajir is expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2020.

Related:Hapag-Lloyd embarks on use of biofuel to reduce CO2 emissions

In addition, Hapag-Lloyd will continue to work on alternative fuel solutions. For example, an initial test using a biofuel based on used cooking oil was launched at the beginning of the year.

 “Sustainability is a common task, and it can only be achieved together with strong partners,” said Jörg Erdmann, Senior Director Sustainability Management. 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.

“Sustainability is a marathon rather than a 100-metre 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,” Habben Jansen adds.