X-Press Feeders, the world’s largest independent common carrier, has made a significant move towards greener shipping initiatives by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with six prominent European ports. The ports involved are the Port of Antwerp Bruges (Belgium), Port of Tallinn (Estonia), Port of Helsinki (Finland), Port of HaminaKotka (Finland), Freeport of Riga (Latvia), and Klaipeda Port (Lithuania).
This groundbreaking agreement symbolizes a collective effort to accelerate the establishment of green shipping corridors and promote decarbonization within the marine sector across Scandinavia and the Baltic Sea. Through this MOU, X-Press Feeders and the participating ports will combine their resources and expertise to develop and implement sustainable practices for maritime operations.
The key highlights of the MOU include:
- Collaborative efforts to enhance infrastructure for alternative fuels such as green methanol.
- Encouragement of supply chain development for zero or near-zero greenhouse gas emissions fuel.
- Provision of training programs for port workers and seafarers regarding the handling of alternative fuels.
- Utilization of digital platforms to optimize port calls.
- Regular meetings to monitor and discuss progress on actions for further developing green shipping corridors.
This partnership marks a significant milestone in the maritime industry’s commitment to broader decarbonization efforts. It will kick off with the establishment of two green shipping routes:
- Green Baltic X-PRESS (GBX): Rotterdam > Antwerp Bruges > Klaipeda > Riga > Rotterdam
- Green Finland X-PRESS (GFX): Rotterdam > Antwerp Bruges > Helsinki > Tallinn > HaminaKotka > Rotterdam
Scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2024, these services represent a significant step towards more environmentally sustainable shipping in Europe. Notably, they will be the first scheduled feeder routes in Europe powered by green methanol, a fuel that emits at least 60% less greenhouse gases than conventional marine fuel.
X-Press Feeders sources its green methanol from fuel supplier OCI Global. This methanol is produced from green hydrogen and the decomposition of organic matter, such as waste and residues, and is independently certified by the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) Association.
X-Press Feeders Chief Operating Officer, Francis Goh, says: “By working together – X-Press Feeders and the six partner ports – aim to efficiently implement green shipping corridors and lead the maritime industry in sustainability. We chose the Nordic and Baltic states as the first markets to deploy our green methanol powered vessels because we found the ports and our customers in these markets to be very receptive.”
“This MOU represents a significant milestone in our commitment to a sustainable future for the maritime industry. By collaborating with these leading European ports, we can collectively drive the adoption of green technologies that accelerate the decarbonization of our industry,” he adds.
“The Port of Antwerp-Bruges is honored to have signed this MOU with X-Press Feeders and fellow European ports, emphasizing our joint dedication to sustainable maritime practices. This partnership signifies a crucial step forward in nurturing eco-friendly shipping corridors and encouraging the use of alternative fuels. It reinforces our steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship in the Baltic Sea and Scandinavian region, which plays a vital role for our port,” says Luc Arnouts, Vice President, International Affairs, Port of Antwerp-Bruges.
“Making the maritime sector more sustainable and reducing its environmental footprint, is a priority for all stakeholders in our industry. It is extremely welcoming that the first tangible steps – towards greater sustainability in our industry – addresses fuel consumption. Port of Tallinn was one of the fastest ports in Europe to digitalize, and soon we can say the same about the introduction of new types of fuels,” says Margus Vihman, Commercial Manager, Port of Tallinn.
“We are humble and proud to be a chosen destination for methanol driven container ship from summer 2024 onwards. This is a very important milestone for the Carbon-Neutral Port of Helsinki Manifestation. The only possible way to achieve significantly reduced cargo owners’ scope 3 emissions from maritime transportation, comes with shipping companies like X-Press Feeders taking the tangible steps,” says Vesa Marttinen, Vice President, Cargo, Port of Helsinki.
“Port of HaminaKotka Ltd is committed to promoting environmentally friendly practices in maritime transport by signing this Memorandum of Understanding aimed at accelerating the establishment of green shipping corridors in Europe. This initiative is a step towards a more sustainable future and more environmentally responsible shipping. We strongly believe that joint actions play a key role in our efforts to reduce the environmental impact of shipping,” says Timo Rosendahl, Director of Traffic Operations, Port of HaminaKotka Ltd.
“The Port of Riga is delighted to join the European ports in promoting green shipping and establishing green shipping corridors, focusing on climate neutrality and integration into green logistics corridors. This commitment is crucial for the port’s sustainability and competitiveness, as it aligns with the European Green Deal and meets client demands for greener transport solutions. The availability of green energy not only makes the port more efficient and safer but also significantly boosts its appeal for freight and investment projects,” says Edgars Suna, Freeport of Riga Authority Deputy CEO for Port Development Matters.
“In recent years, Klaipeda Port has taken significant strides towards sustainability. This year marks the commencement of construction for green hydrogen production and refueling stations at the port, along with the implementation of shore-side power supply (OPS) stations for roll-on/roll-off ferries. Furthermore, Klaipeda Port proudly enters 2024 with the Port Environmental Review System (PERS) certification, underscoring our commitment to environmental stewardship. Already, methanol bunkering operations are available at Klaipeda Port. The integration of Klaipeda Port into environmentally sustainable shipping services by X-Press Feeders is a testament to our unwavering dedication to fostering a greener port,” says Vladas Motiejūnas, Harbor Master of the Port of Klaipėda.
About X-Press Feeders
X-Press Feeders, established in 1972, is the world’s largest independent common carrier. Initially focused on Southeast Asia, we’ve expanded globally, operating across Asia, Middle East, Africa, Caribbean, Latin America, Mediterranean, and Europe.
With a fleet exceeding 100 vessels, including over 40 owned vessels, and an annual throughput surpassing 6 million TEUs in 2022, our success is driven by our dedicated staff of 400 across key global locations. At X-Press Feeders, our collective aim is to deliver top-notch network, schedules, and solutions to our customers.
Source X-Press Feeders