Notably, more than half of these new vessels, specifically 35 ships (over 52%), are committed to sailing on green fuels, aligning with sustainable practices. Among these eco-friendly additions is the groundbreaking service operation vessel (SOV), anticipated to be delivered to ESVAGT and Ørsted in 2024. This vessel stands out as the world's first of its kind capable of operating on green fuels.
The ordered tonnage reflects a remarkable 7% increase compared to the previous year, emphasizing the industry's upward trajectory. Delving into the ships' tonnage, the commitment to green development becomes even more evident, with over 80% of the new tonnage designed to navigate using environmentally friendly fuels.
“The Danish shipping companies have really signed up to the green transition. It is a very significant development when more than 80% of the new tonnage that is on the way is on ships that can sail on green fuels. The new ships will also replace older and less energy efficient ships, so this is a very welcome development,” Jacob K. Clasen, CEO of Danske Rederier, said.
Maersk, a leading player in the maritime industry, is gearing up for a significant environmental leap as it prepares to receive its first large methanol-fueled container vessel. The vessel, constructed by Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) in South Korea, boasts a nominal capacity of 16,000 containers (TEU) and features a dual-fuel engine, enabling operations on methanol, biodiesel, and conventional bunker fuel. This eco-friendly vessel, launched in October 2023, is set to become the second container ship globally capable of sailing on green methanol, following in the footsteps of the Laura Maersk feeder vessel.
In a recent development, Danish Shipping took the spotlight at COP28 in Dubai, where Crown Prince Frederik inaugurated the event. State of Green, Denmark's green brand, unveiled a new white paper at the pavilion, aiming to inspire global entities to expedite the decarbonization of the shipping industry.
During COP28, Maersk, alongside fellow container shipping companies, made a significant commitment by signing a declaration advocating for concrete regulatory measures to accelerate the industry's green transition. Simultaneously, the Danish government announced a collaboration with the USA, joining forces with the Maersk McKinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping. This partnership will finance and execute pre-feasibility studies for green corridors in the Global South—shipping routes facilitating the bunkering of green fuels. Stay tuned for further updates on Maersk's sustainable initiatives shaping the future of maritime transportation.
