In a move towards sustainable maritime practices, Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC), a prominent global merchant and processor of agricultural goods, has entered into a commercial agreement with bound4blue to integrate cutting-edge eSAIL® technology on its chartered juice vessel, MV Atlantic Orchard. This collaborative effort with Wisby Tankers AB, Sweden, sets the stage for a transformative initiative in the maritime sector.
Sailing into the Future: The eSAIL® Revolution
LDC’s chartered juice vessel, MV Atlantic Orchard, is slated for a green makeover with the installation of four 26-meter-high eSAILs® by 2024. This strategic move is anticipated to curtail annual fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by a commendable 10%, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
bound4blue, recognized for its groundbreaking work in maritime decarbonization, has engineered the eSAIL® system, a wind-assisted propulsion technology featuring suction sails. These sails, with a thick aerodynamic profile and intelligent suction mechanisms, promise a sevenfold increase in propulsive efficiency compared to traditional methods. The technology has gained acclaim, holding the record for the largest suction sail ever constructed and installed on a vessel.
Third-Party Validation: Lloyd’s Register Backs bound4blue
The decision to adopt bound4blue’s eSAIL® system stems from a comprehensive assessment by Lloyd’s Register, which identified the suction sails as the most promising solution among various alternatives. The study underscores bound4blue’s commitment to providing effective and reliable clean technologies for vessel types across the spectrum.
José Miguel Bermúdez, CEO of bound4blue, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the maturity of their technology as a proven solution for fuel and emission reduction. He stated, “LDC is at the forefront of adopting proven clean technologies to reduce carbon emissions in its fleet, and we are delighted to support them in their endeavor.”
LDC’s Green Commitment: A Step Towards IMO’s 2050 Vision
Sébastien Landerretche, LDC’s Global Head of Freight, emphasized LDC’s commitment to shaping a low-carbon economy by actively contributing to the global shipping industry’s energy transition. This move aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) target to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from the sector by 2050. Sébastien expressed pleasure in partnering with bound4blue and Wisby Tankers to usher in advanced sail technology aboard their chartered juice carrier.
