Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) announced the successful completion of a biodiesel-blended marine fuel (biofuel) bunkering on its capesize bulk carrier, MIDNIGHT DREAM. The bunkering took place in March 2025, marking a significant step in MOL’s sustainability efforts and its collaboration with BHP Group Ltd. to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in ocean transport.
Supply of Biofuel for MIDNIGHT DREAM
In a landmark achievement, MOL bunkered approximately 1,000 tons of biofuel to the MIDNIGHT DREAM in Singapore, representing the company’s first use of biofuel on a capesize bulk carrier. This operation also marks the commencement of a collaborative effort between MOL and BHP Group Ltd. to implement biofuels as an alternative to traditional marine fuels.
The biofuel used in this bunkering operation is a blend of about 24% biodiesel (B24) with Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO). By utilizing this biofuel blend, MOL expects to reduce the vessel’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by approximately 750 tons. This reduction aligns with MOL’s commitment to achieving more sustainable and environmentally friendly operations within the maritime industry.
Biofuel, made from organic materials such as agricultural residues and waste cooking oil, has proven to be an effective alternative to traditional fossil fuels due to its lower carbon emissions. Its compatibility with existing marine diesel engines and bunkering infrastructure means it can be adopted without the need for significant modifications to vessels or facilities. This ease of adoption makes biofuel a promising solution for reducing the maritime sector’s environmental footprint.
MOL has expressed its intention to continue exploring and advancing the adoption of clean, alternative fuels. This initiative is a key part of the company’s broader environmental strategy outlined in the BLUE ACTION 2035 management plan, which aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in ocean transport.
About MIDNIGHT DREAM
The MIDNIGHT DREAM is a large-capacity capesize bulk carrier with the following specifications:
- Length Overall (LOA): 292 meters
- Breadth: 45 meters
- Draft: 18 meters
- Deadweight Tonnage: 180,517 tons
As one of MOL’s prominent vessels, the MIDNIGHT DREAM plays an essential role in the transportation of bulk goods, particularly in the dry bulk sector.
MOL Group’s Commitment to Sustainability
MOL Group recognizes “Sustainability Issues” as key challenges for sustainable growth and has made it a priority to address these through its operations. One of the Group’s major sustainability objectives is “Environment – Conservation for Marine and the Global Environment.” The successful implementation of biofuel on the MIDNIGHT DREAM underscores MOL’s dedication to sustainability and its efforts to minimize the environmental impact of its shipping operations.
About BHP
BHP is a global leader in resources, recognized for its significant role in the extraction and processing of essential commodities, including iron ore, copper, coal, oil, and gas. Headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, BHP operates a vast and diversified portfolio of assets spanning multiple continents.
In addition to its global resource extraction activities, BHP is deeply committed to sustainable practices, with a particular focus on reducing its environmental impact. As part of its decarbonization efforts, BHP has been collaborating with companies like MOL to explore innovative solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in maritime shipping. This collaboration with MOL further emphasizes BHP’s ongoing commitment to advancing a low-carbon future and promoting responsible resource management on a global scale.
About Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL)
MOL is a global leader in shipping, operating over 800 ships worldwide. Its diverse fleet includes bulk carriers, liquefied natural gas carriers, Ro-Ro car carrier ships, and oil tankers, among others. Beyond traditional shipping, MOL also engages in social infrastructure businesses, including real estate, terminal and logistics, and offshore wind power. With one of the largest merchant fleets and 140 years of history, MOL aims to be a resilient corporate group that provides new value to all stakeholders.
Source Mitsui O.S.K. Lines