OOCL and partners drive low-carbon shipping with biofuel

Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) and its partners, including IKEA and Kyocera, have joined forces to promote low-carbon shipping by adopting cleaner fuels to reduce supply chain emissions.

The first voyage under this initiative began in early August, using a B24 biofuel blend. This blend incorporates ISCC-certified Used Cooking Oil Methyl Ester as a component of the Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO).

By replacing traditional fossil fuels with biofuel, the initiative aims to cut carbon emissions in shipping, serving as a viable transitional solution toward long-term decarbonization goals. The carbon savings from this voyage will be credited to the participating partners, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint for their cargo.

Each partner will receive a Green Certificate as credible proof of their carbon emissions savings through the use of biofuel. This process is verified by the Global Shipping Business Network (GSBN), a non-profit blockchain consortium, which ensures the calculation and allocation of carbon emission savings are tracked with a traceable and immutable record. OOCL employs the Well-to-Wake approach, measuring lifecycle carbon emissions from fuel production to its consumption during ship operations.

Since 2023, OOCL has been integrating biofuel into some of its vessels as part of its broader strategy to support the transition to decarbonization.