CMA CGM and Maersk enter into decarbonisation partnership

MARSEILLE / COPENHAGEN : Two of the largest container shipping companies, Maersk and CMA CGM have decided to collaborate on decarbonisation initiatives. Both ocean carriers believe that working together can assist in accelerating the green transition in shipping.

CMA CGM and Maersk have established a net-zero target for their shipping businesses, have found scalable technologies that can have an impact this decade and have already taken steps to promote maritime decarbonisation.

Additionally, both companies are investing in new green vessels. Maersk has placed an order for vessels that can run on bio/e-methanol, while the French shipping line has placed orders for LNG-propelled ships that can also run on bio/e-methane, the new green equivalent to current LNG, as well as vessels that can run on bio/e-methanol.

“By combining the know-how and the expertise of two shipping leaders, we will accelerate the development of new solutions and technologies, enabling our industry to reach its CO2 reduction targets. We are looking forward to being joined by other companies,” commented Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of the CMA CGM Group.

While these two fuel streams appear to be the most mature among present options, both firms anticipate that the future fuel mix of shipping will include other streams that will be developed over the next few years.

Specifically, Maersk and CMA CGM will work 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, the two shipping giants have agreed to the fundamental role of regulation in securing the decarbonisation of the sector. Both companies have welcomed 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.

Maersk and CMA CGM stated they remain committed to jointly advocating for and encouraging IMO Member States to adopt ambitious measures in their pursuit of the highest attainable goals.

“We are pleased to have an ally in CMA CGM and it’s a testament that when we united through determined efforts and partnerships, a tangible and optimistic path toward a sustainable future emerges,” said Vincent Clerc, CEO of Maersk.