The companies have set a net-zero target for their shipping business and will work on scalable solutions that can create impact in this decade. Maersk has been ordering vessels that can be operated on bio/e-methanol.
CMA CGM has been ordering LNG-propelled vessels, that can also be operated on bio/e-methane, the new green equivalent of current LNG, and has also placed orders for vessels that can be operated on bio/e-methanol.
While these two fuel streams appear now as the most mature among existing solutions, both companies expect the future fuel mix of shipping will include other streams that should be developed in the coming years.
Future of fuels for the shipping industry
According to a CMA CGM press release both shipping lines will work more together to develop the use of alternative greener fuels for container vessel propulsion, namely:
Developing high standards for alternative sustainable, green fuels – including the analysis of full lifecycle and related greenhouse gasses – and helping to setting the framework of mass production of green methane and green methanol
Developing and maintaining standards for operation of green methanol vessels with regards to safety and bunkering, as well as accelerating port readiness for bunkering and supply of bio/e-methanol at key ports around the world
Continuing to explore jointly R+D on other components of the net zero solution as new alternative fuels, like ammonia, or innovation technology for our ships
Moreover, Maersk and CMA-CGM both agree to the fundamental role of regulation in securing the decarbonization of the sector. Both companies warmly welcome the outcome of the recent Marine Environment Protection Committee of the International Maritime Organization during which the IMO’s 2023 Strategy for Reducing GHG Emissions from Ships was adopted, with reinforced targets to tackle harmful emissions.
CMA CGM and Maersk affirm their readiness to collaboratively engage with regulatory stakeholders in establishing a robust and sustainable international regulatory GHG framework and invite other international shipping lines who so wish to join them in this cooperation with the regulatory institutions.
