Decarbonizing Maritime Operations: DP World’s Sustainable Strategies

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) reports that a staggering 90% of global trade is conducted via sea, highlighting the considerable environmental implications of port and shipping operations. The shipping industry, which accounts for nearly 3% of worldwide greenhouse gas emissions, is on the brink of a major shift, as maritime trade volumes are projected to triple by 2050, according to Morten Johansen, COO for DP World Americas, in a recent Forbes article.

Johansen emphasizes in his article, “Pioneering a Sustainable Future in Port Operations,” that the environmental toll of these operations can no longer be overlooked, particularly in light of the increasing demand for global freight. He stresses the immediate need to decarbonize maritime port operations due to the significant environmental impact of shipping. As one of the world’s top port operators, DP World shares the responsibility of emission reduction and the promotion of cleaner, more sustainable practices. This shared duty extends to all stakeholders in the value chain, including terminal operators, OEMs, port authorities, government entities, and shipping line operators.

Drawing from his experience at DP World, Johansen outlines strategies that other port operators can adopt to help lower carbon emissions. These strategies include electrifying port equipment, investing in renewable energy, and investigating alternative fuels and technologies. He provides specific examples:

• Electrifying container-handling equipment (CHE), a major source of carbon emissions. DP World has already started deploying electric cranes at the Port of Callao in Peru, electric terminal tractors in the Dominican Republic, and replacing diesel RTGs with electric versions at Brazil’s Port of Santos.
• Committing to renewable energy. DP World has invested in on-site solar energy generation and operates its Chile and Peru facilities entirely on hydroelectric power.
• Exploring innovative solutions, such as hydrogen. DP World is investigating zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell technology for its rubber-tired gantry cranes (RTGs) at the Port of Vancouver.

Johansen points out that DP World’s decarbonization efforts are not solely about achieving its own objectives, but also about establishing a standard for the maritime industry. He emphasizes the importance of gradual progress and tailoring strategies to regional needs for successful decarbonization.