Yokohama City and Mitsubishi Partner with Maersk for sustainable shipping future

A.P. Moller-Maersk (Maersk) has announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the City of Yokohama and Mitsubishi Gas Chemical (MGC), focusing on developing green methanol bunkering infrastructure in Yokohama. This initiative aligns with Maersk’s delivery of 16,000 TEU green methanol-powered container vessels starting in 2024 and underscores a shared commitment to sustainable practices.

Maersk’s Ambitious Environmental Goals

Maersk is on a mission to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040 across its business operations. To this end, the company plans to equip 25 of its container vessels with dual-fuel engines capable of operating on green methanol. The success of this green initiative relies heavily on the establishment of methanol bunkering infrastructure at global ports.

Maersk, Yokohama City, and Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Join Forces for Green Methanol Bunkering

Key Statements from Collaborative Partners

Toru Nishiyama, Managing Director of Maersk Northeast Asia, emphasized the strategic alignment with Yokohama and MGC, noting the importance of developing green fuel options in Japan. Dr. Takeharu Yamanaka, Mayor of Yokohama, highlighted the city’s commitment to carbon neutrality and its role in developing green shipping corridors.

Yokohama Port’s Critical Role

The Port of Yokohama, overseen by the City of Yokohama, stands as Japan’s deepest water berth and a pivotal gateway for maritime transportation. With its advanced facilities, Yokohama is poised to play a key role in the development of green shipping solutions.

Mitsubishi Gas Chemical’s Methanol Expertise

Masashi Fujii, President of Mitsubishi Gas Chemical, recognized the significance of establishing methanol as a ship fuel supply base in Japan. MGC’s leadership in methanol production positions it as an integral player in this collaboration.

Next Steps and Future Outlook

The collaboration will focus on assessing operational feasibility and developing necessary port facilities for green methanol bunkering in Yokohama. Through this joint effort, Maersk, Yokohama, and MGC aim to drive innovation and safety in sustainable methanol solutions within the maritime industry.

Conclusion: A Vision for Sustainable Shipping

This collaborative effort marks a significant stride towards a greener future in maritime operations. As Maersk, Yokohama, and Mitsubishi Gas Chemical unite their expertise, they set the stage for a more sustainable, eco-friendly approach to global shipping, paving the way for an environmentally conscious future in the industry.