Berge Bulk, a global leader in dry bulk shipping, and BHP have embarked on an innovative partnership to reduce the carbon footprint of their iron ore shipments. In a pioneering step, they have launched a voyage powered entirely by B100 biodiesel from Australia to China, marking a major milestone in the decarbonization of maritime shipping.
The Berge Lyngor, a 206,330 DWT Newcastlemax bulk carrier, is currently transporting iron ore from Australia to China using 100% biodiesel as marine fuel. Last month, the vessel successfully bunkered B100 biodiesel, completing its maiden voyage with this cleaner fuel. This voyage represents the first time that B100 biodiesel has been used on the busy trade route between Australia and China, setting a precedent for future sustainable maritime operations.
Gerard Ang, Head of Maritime Iron Ore at BHP, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, saying, “This collaboration with Berge Bulk represents an exciting step in BHP’s ambition to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from shipping our products. Together, we are demonstrating that meaningful progress can be achieved through bold initiatives, innovation, and teamwork.”
B100 biodiesel, derived from vegetable oils, animal fats, tallow, and waste cooking oils, delivers a significant environmental benefit by reducing well-to-wake greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 84% compared to conventional fossil fuel oils. This reduction in emissions underscores the potential of biodiesel to be a key player in the maritime industry’s transition to more sustainable operations.
This pilot voyage is part of Berge Bulk’s broader Maritime Marshall Plan, which is dedicated to decarbonizing the company’s fleet. Since 2021, Berge Bulk has been utilizing biodiesel (B30, B50, and B100) for voyages from Europe and North America, gaining valuable experience. The company is also exploring other alternative fuels, including ammonia and methanol, to further reduce GHG emissions in line with its ambitious sustainability goals. Notably, in 2024, Berge Bulk announced plans to build two ammonia-powered ships, scheduled for delivery by 2027. Additionally, Berge Bulk became a member of The Methanol Institute to support the global transition to methanol as a maritime fuel.
The Berge Lyngor voyage represents the first time Berge Bulk has deployed biodiesel in the Pacific, showcasing the company’s commitment to exploring sustainable fuel options across different shipping routes.
Duncan Bond, Chief Commercial Officer at Berge Bulk, emphasized the importance of the partnership with BHP, saying, “Berge Bulk has committed to building and operating a zero Scope 1 emissions vessel by 2030 and achieving zero Scope 1 emissions fleetwide by 2050. This collaboration with BHP is a testament to what we can achieve together. By deploying B100 biodiesel on the Berge Lyngor, we are not only reducing carbon emissions for that voyage but also setting an example of how partnerships and innovation can lead to a greener future for shipping.”
Berge Bulk‘s commitment to sustainability extends beyond this initiative. The company has outlined an ambitious decarbonization timeline, with three key milestones:
- Offset 100% of Scope 1 carbon emissions from 2025 onward.
- Build and operate a zero-emissions vessel by 2030.
- Achieve zero Scope 1 carbon emissions fleetwide by 2050.
To achieve these milestones, Berge Bulk has developed a four-pillar “Maritime Marshall Plan,” focusing on:
- Improving fleet efficiency.
- Leveraging the latest maritime technology.
- Converting to new fuels.
- Capturing the remaining carbon directly or indirectly.
About BHP
BHP is one of the world’s leading global resources companies, renowned for its role in extracting and processing essential commodities such as iron ore, copper, coal, oil, and gas. Headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, BHP has a vast and diversified portfolio of assets, with operations spanning across multiple continents.
The company is committed to sustainable practices and innovation, focusing on reducing its environmental impact while driving economic growth. BHP’s efforts to decarbonize its operations, including its collaboration with Berge Bulk to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in maritime shipping, reflect its ongoing commitment to responsible resource management and advancing a low-carbon future.
About Berge Bulk
Berge Bulk is a global leader in dry bulk shipping, known for its reliable, safe, and efficient delivery of commodities worldwide. Founded in 2007 with a fleet of just 12 vessels, the company now operates 90 fuel-efficient vessels, representing over 15 million DWT. Berge Bulk is dedicated to leading the maritime industry to a zero-carbon future through its commitment to safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
This latest achievement with BHP is just one of the steps in Berge Bulk’s broader efforts to transform the shipping industry into a more sustainable and environmentally responsible sector. As the company continues to explore alternative fuels and innovate in green shipping technologies, it sets an example of how the maritime industry can contribute to global decarbonization efforts.
Source Berge Bulk