Hamburg, 5 April 2024 – moveing forward towards greener maritime practices, X-Press Feeders, the world’s largest independent common carrier, has inked a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with six prominent European ports. The participating ports include 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 collaborative effort signals a collective commitment to expediting the establishment of green shipping corridors and fostering the broader decarbonization of the marine sector across Scandinavia and the Baltic Sea. Through this MOU, X-Press Feeders and the involved ports will synergize their resources and expertise to cultivate and execute sustainable practices for maritime operations.
The memorandum outlines several key initiatives, including the development of infrastructure for the provision and bunkering of alternative fuels like green methanol, encouraging the evolution of supply chains for fuel with minimal greenhouse gas emissions, and offering comprehensive training programs for port workers and seafarers regarding the handling of alternative fuels. Additionally, the collaboration aims to leverage digital platforms to optimize port call operations, enhancing efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
The agreement underscores a shared dedication to broader decarbonization efforts within the maritime sector, aligning with global sustainability goals.
One of the most significant outcomes of this collaboration is the establishment of two pioneering shipping routes: Green Baltic X-PRESS (GBX) and Green Finland X-PRESS (GFX). These routes, scheduled to commence in Q3 2024, will mark the introduction of Europe’s first scheduled feeder routes powered by green methanol, a fuel alternative known for producing significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional marine fuel.
X-Press Feeders sources its green methanol from OCI Global, a leading fuel supplier. The green methanol is derived from green hydrogen and the decomposition of organic matter, meeting stringent sustainability standards certified by the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) Association.
Francis Goh, Chief Operating Officer of X-Press Feeders, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “By working together with the six partner ports, we 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.”
Representatives from the participating ports, echoed their commitment to sustainability. A spokesperson from the Port of Antwerp Bruges emphasized the partnership’s importance in nurturing eco-friendly shipping corridors, while officials from other ports highlighted the significance of reducing the environmental footprint of maritime transportation through innovative fuel solutions and collaborative efforts.
Margus Vihman, Commercial Manager at the Port of Tallinn, emphasized the priority of making the maritime sector more sustainable. He welcomed the tangible steps taken towards greater sustainability, particularly addressing fuel consumption.
Vesa Marttinen, Vice President of Cargo at the Port of Helsinki, expressed humility and pride in being chosen as a destination for methanol-driven container ships. This move aligns with the Carbon-Neutral Port of Helsinki Manifestation, aiming to significantly reduce cargo owners’ emissions from maritime transportation.
Similarly, Timo Rosendahl, Director of Traffic Operations at Port of HaminaKotka Ltd, highlighted the commitment to promoting environmentally friendly practices
Edgars Suna, Deputy CEO for Port of Rige ,Development Matters, stressed the alignment with the European Green Deal and meeting client demands for greener transport solutions.
