Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Launches Biofuel-Powered Voyage
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. has successfully completed a significant milestone in sustainable shipping by bunkering biodiesel-blended marine fuel in Singapore on September 14. The operation took place on the Lambert Maru, a capsize bulk carrier owned by MOL, which is now en route to support global mining giant Anglo American. This voyage marks a pivotal step towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels in maritime transportation.
Advancing Sustainability in Maritime Transport
The Lambert Maru’s journey is part of the MOL Group’s innovative carbon inset program, known as the “BLUE ACTION NET-ZERO ALLIANCE.” This initiative aims to achieve net-zero emissions in maritime operations. The greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions generated during this voyage will be digitally certified and allocated to Anglo American, allowing the company to incorporate these reductions into its Scope 3 emissions reporting. This integration is crucial for companies striving to meet sustainability targets and enhance their environmental disclosures.
The biofuel utilized for this bunkering is a B30 blend, which is certified under the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC-EU). This blend consists of 30% biomass, primarily sourced from waste cooking oil, and is projected to reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 30% compared to traditional fossil fuels. The use of biofuel not only lowers carbon emissions but also aligns with the MOL Group’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
One of the key advantages of biofuel is its compatibility with existing marine diesel engines and bunkering infrastructure. This compatibility facilitates a seamless transition to cleaner fuels without necessitating modifications to current systems. As part of its environmental strategy outlined in BLUE ACTION 2035, the MOL Group is dedicated to the proactive adoption of clean fuels, reinforcing its commitment to decarbonizing marine transport.
Technical Specifications of Lambert Maru
The Lambert Maru is a substantial vessel with a length overall (LOA) of 292 meters, a breadth of 45 meters, and a draft of 18 meters. It boasts a deadweight tonnage of 180,432 metric tons, making it a formidable player in the bulk carrier sector. This successful bunkering operation not only highlights the potential of biofuels in maritime applications but also sets a precedent for future initiatives aimed at reducing the environmental impact of shipping.
