Commercial, Energy Efficiency, GHG Emissions  -  December 14, 2018

Maersk to cut carbon emissions by 2050

Danish group AP Moller Maersk, the world’s largest container shipping company, has pledged to be carbon neutral by 2050.

A report by Electrek noted, “While 2050 is more than a generation away, the 20-25 year life cycle of these ships means that Maersk must start building these zero carbon ships exclusively in 2025-2030 which is just 7-12 years off.” Shipping currently accounts for 80% of how the world’s trade is moved and causes at least 3% of the world’s CO2 emissions.

“This is not just another cost-cutting exercise. It’s far from that. It’s an existential exercise, where we as a company need to set ourselves apart,” said Maersk’s COO in the report. “We’ve been able to absorb the last 10 years’ growth without adding to CO2 emissions. It’s a good starting point but it’s not enough . . . Not just governments and countries, but also companies and industries need to make a change. The maritime industry and Maersk need to take their responsibility.”