CMA CGM Group, a global leader in shipping and logistics, and SUEZ, a world authority in circular waste management, have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to accelerate the production of biomethane and drive the decarbonization of maritime transport. The agreement, signed on October 18, aims to produce up to 100,000 tonnes of biomethane annually by 2030, furthering both companies’ commitment to environmental sustainability.
Key Pillars of the Agreement:
- Biomethane Supply: SUEZ will supply up to 100,000 tonnes of biomethane annually by 2030. This renewable fuel, derived from waste recovery, will be used by CMA CGM’s gas-powered vessels, making a significant contribution to the decarbonization of maritime transport in Europe.
- Joint Investment Program: The collaboration will establish a joint investment structure with an initial funding commitment of €100 million through 2030. The goal is to develop biomethane production facilities, primarily in Europe, which will serve both CMA CGM and other shipping industry stakeholders.
- Research & Development Initiatives: The partnership will also focus on developing cutting-edge biofuel technologies, including hydrothermal gasification, to boost the production and efficiency of biomethane.
Advancing Maritime Decarbonization
CMA CGM Group has long been at the forefront of the shipping industry’s energy transition. With a commitment to achieving Net Zero Carbon by 2050, the Group has invested $18 billion in the construction of 131 vessels capable of running on low-carbon fuels such as biomethane, biomethanol, and synthetic fuels. These vessels are expected to be operational by 2028. This partnership with SUEZ complements CMA CGM’s broader strategy to collaborate with energy providers in building sustainable fuel production facilities and supply chains.
Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of CMA CGM Group, commented on the strategic significance of the partnership: “The strategic partnership between CMA CGM and SUEZ, one of France’s leading players in the energy transition, marks a major step forward. It will enable us to support the biomethane sector dedicated to the shipping industry, while accelerating the decarbonisation of CMA CGM Group and guaranteeing our carbon neutrality trajectory by 2050. This project also strengthens our energy independence, a key asset for the sovereignty of France and Europe.”
SUEZ’s Role in Circular Energy Solutions
SUEZ brings its expertise in waste recovery and energy production to the partnership, helping industries and local authorities transition to low-carbon operations. In 2023 alone, SUEZ enabled its clients to avoid 6.4 million tonnes of CO2 emissions. The company also converted 5 million tonnes of waste into energy and produced 382 GWh of biomethane, showcasing its capacity to support large-scale decarbonization initiatives.
Sabrina Soussan, Chairman and CEO of SUEZ, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “I am delighted to be working with the CMA CGM Group, a key player in maritime transport. Together, we are going to develop circular solutions that will contribute to the decarbonisation of this strategic sector in Europe. This partnership for biomethane production is a further illustration of SUEZ’s ambition to turn waste into new resources for the energy transition of the transport sector.”
A Step Towards Energy Independence
The production of biomethane will not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also enhance energy independence for both France and Europe. By converting waste into renewable energy, the collaboration between CMA CGM and SUEZ paves the way for a sustainable, circular economy in the shipping sector.
This partnership marks a significant step forward in the decarbonization of the maritime industry, setting the stage for future innovations in sustainable fuel production and use.
About CMA CGM Group
The CMA CGM Group, led by Chairman and CEO Rodolphe Saadé, operates one of the world’s largest shipping fleets, serving over 420 ports across five continents. In 2022, the Group transported 21.7 million TEU containers and continues to innovate in logistics, shipping, and air freight services through its subsidiaries, including CEVA Logistics and CMA CGM AIR CARGO. Committed to achieving Net Zero Carbon by 2050, CMA CGM is pioneering the use of alternative fuels and sustainable logistics solutions.
About SUEZ
SUEZ is a global leader in circular waste management solutions, specializing in converting waste into energy and secondary raw materials. With a mission to decarbonize industries and local authorities, SUEZ helps its clients reduce CO2 emissions through its innovative energy transition services. In 2023, the Group produced 382 GWh of biomethane and supported numerous sustainability projects worldwide.
Source CMA CGM Group