AP Møller – Mærsk CEO Søren Skou has outlined the company’s route to producing large carbon neutral vessels by the end of this decade, in an ambitious plan for the company.
[s2If is_user_logged_in()]Speaking on a Global Optimism podcast, Skou told listeners that the company has identified sustainably produced ammonia and alcohols, such as ethanol, as the most likely fuels, which both have safety problems. Ethanol has a low flashpoint while ammonia is toxic, but Skou believes that these difficulties can be overcome.
“In three years we expect to order the first series of small container ships that can operate in a small defined area and once we have done that we can sign contracts with ethanol and ammonia suppliers,” explained Skou, who said this would be the first major step.
“Once the company has gained the experience of building and operating these smaller vessels then we can order larger vessels by the end of the decade.” Skou conceded that this is “an ambitious plan,” but he said that many large businesses have decarbonisation plans and they are Maersk customers, “These big brands are pushing shipping to decarbonise” and that is one of the drivers for change.
Another driver for the decarbonisation of the maritime sector is the regulator, said Skou, arguing that the industry needs the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to drive the process, but added, “I’m outraged by the lack of ambition shown by some member states.”[/s2If]
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