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Revolutionizing Supply Chain Sustainability: Trax’s Role in Emissions Reduction

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Revolutionizing Supply Chain Sustainability: Trax’s Role in Emissions Reduction

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In today’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, the imperative to mitigate carbon emissions has never been more urgent. Manufacturing supply chains, responsible for a staggering one-fifth of global carbon emissions and consuming over half of the world’s energy sources, stand at the forefront of this environmental challenge. Amidst this backdrop, Trax Technologies emerges as a pioneering force, committed to spearheading sustainability initiatives within the manufacturing sector.

Addressing the complex task of emissions tracking, Trax is dedicated to raising awareness about the pressing need for global manufacturers to optimize their supply chains’ environmental footprint. The benefits of such optimization extend far beyond ecological considerations, encompassing cost reduction, waste minimization, climate reporting preparedness, and enhanced stakeholder engagement.

Steve Beda, Executive Vice President of Customer Success at Trax, underscores the immediate benefits that manufacturers witness upon embarking on emissions reduction efforts. Beyond driving positive environmental impact, these initiatives lead to overall performance enhancement and garner attention from discerning investors, customers, and employees who prioritize climate-friendly businesses. By streamlining processes and reducing waste, manufacturers not only contribute to a cleaner environment but also realize tangible cost savings.

Recognizing the pivotal role of transportation in emissions reduction, Trax advocates for strategic shipping decisions that prioritize energy efficiency. This includes leveraging maritime transportation and barges, which stand out as some of the most fuel-efficient freight transportation methods available. Trax, leveraging its extensive expertise as a freight audit and payment provider, offers industry leaders data-driven tools like its Carbon Emissions Manager. By analyzing comprehensive data on emissions factors, travel distances, and fuel combustion, Trax empowers manufacturers to make informed decisions that align with sustainability goals.

In its commitment to sustainability, Trax emphasizes the importance of gathering and analyzing reliable data from every aspect of the manufacturing supply chain. This meticulous approach enables benchmarking, reporting, and reduction processes essential for meaningful emissions reduction. By consolidating cost and emissions data, Trax equips global enterprises with the insights needed to integrate environmentally friendly practices seamlessly into their operations.

Trax’s eBook, “Unlocking Environmental Sustainability in Supply Chains,” serves as a comprehensive guide to sustainability trends and outlooks. It underscores the multifaceted nature of sustainable ventures, highlighting how initial investments in emissions reduction yield long-term benefits for both the environment and business revenue.

As the world navigates the imperative of reducing carbon emissions, Trax Technologies emerges as a trailblazer in revolutionizing supply chain sustainability. Through its data-driven solutions and unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, Trax paves the way for a greener, more sustainable future in manufacturing.

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Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, News

ProvisionAi’s AutoO2 Solution Paves the Way for Greener Supply Chains

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ProvisionAi Achieves Remarkable Milestone: 88,000 Trucks Off Roads in 2023 with Ambitious 2024 Target

In a significant stride towards sustainability, ProvisionAi, a pioneer in supply chain optimization, proudly announces the successful removal of 88,000 trucks from the roads in 2023, thanks to its revolutionary AutoO2 load optimization solution. With a bold vision for 2024, ProvisionAi aims to escalate this achievement by targeting the removal of 188,000 trucks, thereby significantly curbing carbon emissions while concurrently enhancing operational efficiency for businesses.

The driving force behind this achievement lies in ProvisionAi’s patented optimization technology embedded within the AutoO2 solution. Tom Moore, CEO of ProvisionAi, emphasizes the pivotal role of AutoO2 in revolutionizing supply chain logistics: “AutoO2 empowers companies to maximize truck capacities, effectively reducing the need for excess vehicles in replenishment operations. By addressing the prevalent issue of underloaded trucks – a staggering 91% in the industry – AutoO2 ensures optimal payload while adhering to axle-legal limits and safeguarding product integrity, leading to a notable 5-10% increase in payload for our clients.”

The imperative to mitigate carbon emissions is echoed globally, particularly within manufacturing and distribution sectors where Scope 3 emissions pose a significant challenge. ProvisionAi’s proactive approach involves tackling emissions associated with upstream transportation and downstream distribution, the key contributors to Scope 3 emissions. By leveraging AutoO2, companies can adopt environmentally friendly practices such as consolidating loads and optimizing vehicle space, resulting in fewer trips, reduced mileage, and ultimately, lower carbon footprints.

While exploring avenues to achieve the ambitious 2024 goal, ProvisionAi advocates for pragmatic solutions such as transitioning to more eco-friendly transportation modes like rail or barge, alongside encouraging carriers to embrace sustainable practices including the use of biodiesel and implementing carbon abatement measures. However, acknowledging the complexities within the freight industry, ProvisionAi emphasizes the efficacy of load optimization as a universally applicable strategy for emissions reduction and cost savings.

AutoO2 epitomizes the fusion of mathematics and artificial intelligence to streamline shipping operations seamlessly. By harnessing data from existing supply planning systems and customer orders, AutoO2 generates optimized shipment configurations and 3-D load diagrams, ensuring timely delivery while maximizing payload efficiency. Whether it’s consolidating shipments or breaking down large orders into optimized truckloads, AutoO2 remains instrumental in driving substantial carbon savings and reducing transportation costs by 5-10%.

In essence, ProvisionAi’s AutoO2 solution emerges as a beacon of innovation, offering a pragmatic pathway towards greener supply chains while simultaneously bolstering economic efficiency for businesses worldwide.

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Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, News, Uncategorized

Trax Empowers Pharma Companies for California’s Climate Reporting Regulations

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Trax Technologies, a pioneer in Transportation Spend Management (TSM) solutions, is playing a pivotal role in equipping pharmaceutical companies with a strategic advantage in addressing the upcoming California climate reporting regulations. Leveraging its proficiency in European Sustainability Reporting Standards, Trax is aiding enterprises to navigate the complexities of emissions reduction, particularly in the context of Scope 3 emissions, which constitute a significant portion of the carbon footprint within the pharmaceutical industry.

A recent analysis by McKinsey underscored that approximately 75 percent of emissions across the value chain for pharmaceutical companies fall under Scope 3, with half of the total emissions originating from upstream activities, specifically in the purchased goods and services category. Trax’s proactive approach in preparing enterprise shippers and pharma manufacturers extends beyond the national realm, encompassing compliance with global reporting requirements such as the European Commission’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the International Sustainability Standard Board (ISSB) climate-related disclosures, and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) climate-related disclosures.

Steve Beda, Executive Vice President of Customer Success at Trax, emphasized the company’s readiness for SEC Climate reporting regulations and highlighted the advantage this readiness provides to pharma companies facing the imminent challenges posed by the forthcoming California Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act. The act mandates companies with revenues of $500 million to report Scope 1 and 2 emissions in 2026 and Scope 3 emissions in 2027.

Uniquely positioned to address the diverse needs of global enterprises, Trax is aligning its efforts with the California climate reporting standards, notably EN 16258. This standard, adopted by the European Union for the CSRD, serves as the foundation for Trax’s reports and promotes consistency in calculating and reporting greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. Trax’s Carbon Emissions Manager emerges as a valuable tool for pharmaceutical companies, enabling them to meticulously assess their carbon footprint by gathering and analyzing data from every segment and vendor within their supply chain.

As the pharmaceutical industry grapples with the impending challenges of emissions reduction and reporting, Trax’s comprehensive solutions empower companies to implement sustainable practices that not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute to environmental well-being. In essence, Trax is spearheading the charge to prepare pharmaceutical enterprises for a future where climate accountability is paramount.

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Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily

Nuvera Fuel Cells and HELINOR Energy Join Forces to Develop Zero-Emission Marine Power Solutions

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Nuvera Fuel Cells, a leading provider of fuel cell power solutions, has formalized a technology development agreement with HELINOR Energy, a Norwegian technology and production provider specializing in next-generation hydrogen fuel cell and fire suppression modules. The collaboration aims to develop scalable zero-emission energy solutions for maritime applications, with HELINOR funding the integration of Nuvera’s next-generation high-power fuel cell engine technology into the maritime industry.

As the demand for zero-emission solutions in shipping grows, both companies see an opportunity to address environmental concerns and demonstrate the efficiency and reliability advantages of hydrogen fuel cell power solutions. Kedar Murthy, Chief Commercial Officer at Nuvera Fuel Cells, expresses enthusiasm for strengthening Nuvera’s presence in the maritime industry and collaborating with HELINOR to contribute to the decarbonization of sea-going transportation.

In alignment with the International Maritime Organization’s strategy to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, HELINOR is dedicated to accelerating the transition to zero-carbon shipping. HELINOR aims to achieve this by offering compact, lightweight, and powerful fuel cell modules that set new standards for safety at sea. Elling Helvig, Chairman of HELINOR, notes that Nuvera’s high-efficiency fuel cell engines are the ideal solution due to their high-power density, optimal use of limited on-board space, and demonstrated high-efficiency performance, resulting in longer range and lower operating costs.

Nuvera’s E-Series Fuel Cell Engines play a crucial role in enabling vessel and maritime equipment manufacturers to meet stringent emissions mandates. These engines are designed to support regulatory compliance and maintain economic competitiveness by delivering high-performance power solutions. The collaboration between Nuvera Fuel Cells and HELINOR Energy signifies a concerted effort to advance the development and adoption of zero-emission energy solutions within the maritime industry.

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Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, News, Ocean Ports

Porto Itapoá Breaks Ground as the First Carbon-Neutral Port in Brazil

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Porto Itapoá, a prominent player in Brazil’s port industry, is making waves by spearheading environmental initiatives and setting a new standard for sustainable practices. Notably, the port is set to become the first in Brazil to integrate carbon credits into its operations through the innovative Carbon Neutralization Project, a collaboration with the Ambipar Group. This groundbreaking project, commencing in 2024, allows terminal customers to purchase carbon credits certified by Ambipar, derived from forest conservation or reforestation, to offset their emissions.

Sergni Pessoa Rosa Jr., the director of Operations, Technology, and Environment at Porto Itapoá, emphasizes the significance of this initiative, positioning the port as a trailblazer in the carbon credit market. This forward-thinking approach is expected to have a ripple effect throughout the entire logistics chain, showcasing Porto Itapoá’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

In addition to the Carbon Neutralization Project, Porto Itapoá has revamped its energy acquisition policy, opting to exclusively consume renewable energy in new contracts starting in 2023. This shift is certified by I-REC(e), a global tracking system for renewable energy attributes, ensuring reliable accounting of renewable energy consumption.

The port is also embarking on a solar energy capture project, conducting a pilot study with installed panels to assess solar light incidence in Itapoá. The data gathered will serve as a foundation for future solar energy projects not only for Porto Itapoá but for the entire municipality, contributing to the broader adoption of sustainable energy practices.

Porto Itapoá’s commitment to environmental excellence is further underscored by its achievement of the Gold Seal of the GHG Protocol in 2023 for the second time. This accolade, implemented by the Center for Sustainability Studies at the Getúlio Vargas Foundation (FGVces) in collaboration with the Ministry of the Environment, recognizes the port’s dedication to reducing carbon emissions. The port has also invested over R$ 25 million in new autonomous RTGs, positioning itself as the first terminal in South America to operate these innovative machines, which consume up to three times less fuel than conventional ones.

For Sergni Pessoa Rosa Jr., the director of Operations, Technology, and Environment, Porto Itapoá’s commitment to economic development intertwined with socio-environmental responsibility reflects the most sustainable path for a company. The aim is to create an environment where all stakeholders can coexist harmoniously in a healthy and sustainable ecosystem.

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Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, News

GoodShipping Expands Green Initiatives to Revolutionize Road Transportation Decarbonization

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GoodShipping, the renowned carbon insetting leader, is delighted to unveil its latest venture into the realm of decarbonization services for road transportation. This move follows their groundbreaking success in pioneering carbon insetting for marine transport since 2017, showcasing their commitment to enhancing emission reduction solutions for both customers and the environment. It’s a vital step, considering that truck freight currently contributes to a staggering 16% of global transport emissions, and projections suggest this could surge to 25% by 2030 if immediate action is not taken.

Recognizing the pressing need to address this challenge, GoodShipping has expanded its solutions to encompass the road transportation sector, with the aim of reducing scope 3 emissions from transport.

Decarbonizing Supply Chains

In line with their highly successful approach in marine transportation, GoodShipping is orchestrating a seamless transition from fossil fuels to sustainable biofuels for road transport. This approach aligns with the concept that all carbon emissions contribute to the same atmosphere. Thus, any carrier utilizing biofuel signifies a reduction in fossil fuel emissions in the atmosphere. GoodShipping collaborates closely with an independent third-party verification partner to rigorously review procedures and calculation methods, ensuring the accurate allocation of carbon reductions to clients.

Through GoodShipping’s insetting services, cargo owners can now make their supply chains more environmentally friendly, even if they don’t own the means of transport used for shipping their goods. In return, cargo owners receive CO2e credits, bringing them closer to their sustainability objectives while showcasing their commitment to mitigating scope 3 emissions and promoting the adoption of biofuels.

A Successful Pilot Implementation

As part of their unwavering commitment to continuous improvement, GoodShipping initiated a pilot program to test and optimize their road insetting service. During this pilot, the road insetting service was trialed by a variety of international clients, including JAS Worldwide, Raben, Scan Global Logistics, and Hellmann Worldwide Logistics. Following successful evaluations, GoodShipping is now offering its road insetting services to all businesses seeking sustainable land-based freight transportation solutions.

Andrea Goeman, SVP Sustainability at JAS, expressed their enthusiasm for the expanded collaboration: “We are thrilled to collaborate with GoodShipping not only on sustainable marine biofuel but also on biofuel for road transport. This expansion of their insetting solutions aligns with our commitment to environmental sustainability and allows us to further create value for our customers.”

Jens Wollesen, COO of Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, emphasized their strategic focus on sustainability and the reduction of CO2 emissions, highlighting how the partnership with GoodShipping enables their customers to reduce Scope 3 emissions from land transport as part of their global seafreight supply chains.

Martin Andersen, Global Head of Sustainability & ESG at Scan Global Logistics, underlined the industry’s collective responsibility for environmental action and praised the collaboration with GoodShipping for extending their commitment to environmental sustainability.

Robbert Wehrmeijer, Managing Director of FincoEnergies Carbon Management, responsible for the GoodShipping brand, stressed the significance of expanding insetting solutions to road transportation to combat climate change effectively.

For companies eager to reduce emissions from road transportation, taking the first step toward sustainable freight transportation is encouraged by reaching out to GoodShipping. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against climate change and represents a promising future for environmentally conscious road transportation.

Global Trade Daily, Technology

The Growing Popularity of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a Clean Energy Source

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The CNG tanks cylinders market reached US$ 1.7 billion in 2022. Demand for CNG tanks cylinders is estimated to surpass US$ 1.8 billion in 2023. During the forecast period, sales are poised to exhibit a 6.7% CAGR. Revenue is anticipated to cross around US$ 3.5 billion by 2033.

Key Market Highlights

The carbon fiber segment is likely to spearhead the material segment of the market. This segment is expected to expand at 6.6% CAGR during 2023 to 2033.

Growing concerns about environmental impact and emissions have led to an increased interest in CNG as a clean alternative to traditional fuels. This, in turn, is driving the demand for CNG cylinders.

CNG is becoming more popular as countries and companies move toward clean sources of energy to minimize carbon emissions. It will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels.

As per the data provided by the Department of Energy, in the United States, around 175,000 automobiles run on natural gas, while about 23 million vehicles do so globally. Compressed natural gas (CNG) fuelling is a consistent source in many regions.

High availability makes natural gas vehicles (NGVs) an excellent option for high-mileage, centrally fuelled fleets. NGVs might have applications that are confined to those areas with similar fuel range support. CNG is being utilized as a fuel for automobiles more often, particularly in fleets of public transit and commercial vehicles. This drives the demand for CNG tanks and cylinders for storing and transporting the fuel.

The expansion of CNG refueling infrastructure is crucial to support the adoption of CNG as a fuel. As a result, more CNG tanks and cylinders need to be produced and installed. CNG might be utilized to store energy, particularly when there is extra renewable energy that has to be kept for later use. This application calls for more CNG storage space. Clean energy sources such as CNG can also find applications in industries that require heat or power generation. This diversifies the demand for CNG tanks and cylinders beyond just transportation.

Strict environmental regulations on emissions can encourage companies to switch to clean fuels such as CNG. This drives demand for the necessary storage and transport infrastructure.

CNG can be a solution for reducing energy waste in situations where excess renewable energy is generated but cannot be immediately used. Storing this energy in the form of CNG can mitigate waste and bolster demand for storage solutions. As the global energy landscape evolves towards sustainability, CNG can play a role in reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels. It will help in creating a sustained demand for CNG tanks cylinders.

Historical Performance of CNG Tanks Cylinders Market

The market experienced steady growth at 8.2% CAGR during the historical period from 2018 to 2022. In the forecast period, the CNG tanks cylinders industry is set to register 6.7% CAGR.

There has been a recent increase in the popularity of compressed natural gas (CNG) as a vehicle fuel, particularly in commercial fleets and public transit. This is likely to increase the demand for CNG tanks cylinders for storing the gas for usage in cars and buses. The growth of CNG as a transportation fuel necessitates the development of refueling infrastructure. This infrastructure expansion would require a greater number of CNG tanks and cylinders.

CNG is seen as a way to reduce carbon emissions in transportation. This will stimulate demand for CNG tanks and cylinders to support the growing fleet of vehicles running on CNG. Governments offer incentives and subsidies to encourage the adoption of clean fuels. These policies can increase the demand for CNG-powered vehicles and, subsequently, for CNG tanks and cylinders.

Apart from transportation, CNG is used in different industrial processes and power generation. The demand for CNG tanks and cylinders in industrial applications is likely to rise as businesses seek clean energy solutions. The diversification of energy sources for transportation and industrial sectors through CNG can enhance energy security. Thereby driving the demand for CNG tanks and cylinders.

The growth of the CNG market might lead to innovations in tank and cylinder design, material, and manufacturing processes, further contributing to market demand. Geopolitical considerations can influence energy transitions. Countries with ample natural gas resources might encourage CNG adoption, boosting the demand for associated tanks and cylinders. As the energy transition spreads to more regions globally, the demand for CNG tanks and cylinders could see increased adoption in previously untapped markets.

Latest CNG Tanks Cylinders Market Trends Listed by Future Market Insights (FMI)

Government Regulations

Strict emissions regulations and incentives to promote the use of alternative fuels are encouraging the adoption of CNG vehicles, thereby boosting the CNG cylinder market.

Advancements in Composite Materials

The development of lightweight and durable composite materials for CNG cylinders enhances their safety, capacity, and efficiency, making them more attractive to consumers.

Increased Adoption in Transportation

CNG is gaining traction in commercial fleets and public transportation due to its cost-effectiveness and lower emissions, driving the need for more CNG cylinders.

Infrastructure Expansion

Expanding CNG refueling infrastructure supports the growth of the CNG market and encourages fleet operators to invest in CNG vehicles and cylinders.

Urbanization and Air Quality Concerns

Increasing urbanization and air quality concerns in cities are pushing for clean transportation solutions, which in turn drives the demand for CNG tank cylinders.

Growing Popularity of Renewable Energy Pushing Sales of CNG Tanks Cylinders in the United States

According to Future Market Insights (FMI) analysis, the United States market for CNG tanks cylinders is set to hold a total of around US$ 632.7 million by 2033. It is predicted to expand at 6.6% CAGR during the forecast period (2023 to 2033).

Growing popularity of vehicles that operate with CNG gas is likely to drive demand in the United States. The demand for more affordable and sustainable fuel choices is what’s fueling growth.

Government regulations aimed at reducing emissions and promoting clean transportation have played a role in the growth of the CNG tanks cylinders market. The use of CNG and other alternative fuels is encouraged by these policies. Several commercial fleets, including taxis, buses, and delivery trucks, have started switching to CNG-powered vehicles. This has led to increased demand for CNG tanks cylinders to store the fuel.

Compressed natural gas, which produces fewer toxins and particles than gasoline or diesel, is seen to be a safer fuel than those two. It is a more enticing choice for consumers and businesses because it is less costly than conventional fuels.

The expansion of CNG refueling infrastructure is critical for the growth of the CNG tanks cylinders market. As more refueling stations are built across the country, the demand for CNG tanks cylinders is likely to increase.

Several companies are involved in the manufacturing and distribution of CNG tanks cylinders in the United States. These companies compete in terms of technology, design, and safety features. The CNG tanks cylinders market is also influenced by global energy trends and geopolitical factors that impact natural gas supply and demand.

Increasing Adoption of Natural Gas to Boost CNG Tanks Cylinders Market in China

China CNG tanks cylinders industry is poised to exhibit a CAGR of 6.6% during the assessment period. By 2033, China market size is expected to reach US$ 795.6 million.

The CNG tanks cylinders market in China is expected to witness decent growth during the forecast period. This is due to the increasing adoption of natural gas as a clean alternative to traditional fuels. China government’s focus on reducing air pollution and carbon emissions has driven the demand for CNG-powered vehicles. This is consequently boosting the CNG tanks cylinders industry in the country. China has been investing in the expansion of CNG refueling infrastructure, encouraging the use of CNG-powered vehicles across various regions.

Government policies, such as subsidies for CNG vehicles and refueling stations, have played a role in promoting the growth of the CNG tanks cylinders market. Several domestic and international companies are engaged in manufacturing CNG tanks cylinders in China to cater to the increasing demand.

Ensuring the safety of CNG storage and transportation is crucial, leading to the implementation of stringent safety standards and regulations for CNG tanks cylinders. Ongoing research and development efforts aim to improve the efficiency, capacity, and safety of CNG tanks cylinders, driving innovation in the market.

Competitive Landscape

To satisfy consumer requests and safety regulations, leading companies concentrate on producing lightweight, strong, and high-capacity CNG cylinders. To improve the effectiveness, safety, and performance of CNG cylinders, they are merging cutting-edge materials and production procedures.

Leading manufacturers seeking to expand into new markets by forming alliances, distribution networks, and partnerships with regional players.

For instance,

In April 2023, The Altroz iCNG, Tata Motors’ much-anticipated premium hatchback, made its formal debut. This design now boasts a new twin-cylinder CNG tank technology, making it the first vehicle in India.

In August 2023, The Tiago and Tigor upgraded CNG vehicles, which now have the upgraded twin-cylinder CNG tank layout, have been released by Tata Motors.

battery Entrepreneurs are shaking up industry that carries ocean shipments of export cargo and import cargo in international trade.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily

Balancing Ambitious IMO Targets with Available Solutions 

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Examining responsibility shift, cost-effective alternatives, and innovative battery tech in shipping 

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has significantly changed its emissions reduction targets, shifting towards a more ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions as close to 2050 as possible. By 2030, member nations have committed to sourcing 5% to 10% of the energy used to power ships from zero to near-zero emission fuels and technologies. These changes vary based on each country’s development classification and economic impact of the maritime sector. 

While these revised targets demonstrate a stronger commitment to emissions reduction, they also raise concerns about the availability and feasibility of alternative fuels. And as the responsibility for decarbonization shifts to member participants and shipowners, there is a growing realization that there are few cost-effective tools and practical solutions for reducing emissions in the shipping industry. To gain momentum in reducing shipping-sector emissions, a collaborative, multi-faceted approach is needed to prioritize research and development of low-cost and accessible technologies. 

Reassigning the Burden 

The shift of responsibility from the IMO to individual nations and shipowners has raised concerns regarding the effectiveness of global rules in achieving emissions reduction targets. While differentiated responsibilities based on development and the economic importance of shipping may provide flexibility, critics argue that this moves away from a stringent global rule and poses challenges to keeping global warming below the critical threshold of 1.5 degrees Celsius. It calls into question the level of commitment and consistency among associated participants in implementing robust measures to decarbonize their shipping sectors. 

Improving hydrodynamics, enacting energy efficiency measures, and lowering cruising speeds can reduce fuel consumption, but cost-effective alternative fuels are essential to making real progress. The options currently under consideration, such as ammonia, methanol, and hydrogen, still face challenges regarding availability, safe implementation, and carbon-neutral production. These alternatives also require significant production capacity before they can be widely adopted as viable solutions for carbon reduction. Liquid natural gas has been proposed as an interim solution, but that still leaves the industry reliant on fossil fuels and requires shipowners to install emission scrubbing systems. 

Inexpensive Tools for Decarbonization 

One potential avenue for partial emissions reduction is battery storage, which offers a range of benefits. Battery systems can be used for peak shaving at sea, kicking in when more power is needed than can be provided by one engine, but less than generated by two. Battery power can be used for low-speed arrival and departure, reducing the need for ships to switch fuels when approaching port. And batteries can also be used for hotel loads, eliminating the need for diesel generators. 

But what batteries are suitable? Lithium-ion batteries, despite their widespread use, have certain drawbacks related to cost, flammability, and toxicity. Recent high-profile battery fires on ro-ros and cargo ships are making shipowners and insurers reassess the risks posed by these batteries, highlighting the need for alternative technologies that offer improved safety, environmental sustainability, and performance. Safer options such as flow batteries are too bulky for use on ships, taking away from available cargo space. Fortunately, startups and researchers are working on options that combine safety with high energy densities, and with investment, commercializing these alternatives will allow the shipping industry to accelerate its transition toward net-zero emissions while mitigating the concerns associated with lithium-ion. 

Striking the Balance 

There’s an axiom that goes “don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good,” meaning it’s better to do something useful now rather than wait for a perfect solution that may never arrive. With that in mind, the shipping industry should look to strike a balance between its 2050 aspirations and the availability of realistic solutions. While the urgency to combat climate change necessitates bold goals, waiting until a perfect solution is available could put decarbonization efforts further behind schedule. Implementing smaller, incremental changes as they become available will help reduce emissions sooner than later. 

 The shipping industry must allocate resources to support the simultaneous exploration of alternative fuels, advanced propulsion systems, and battery energy storage solutions to bridge the gap between 2023 and 2050. By investing in research and development, the industry can unlock new possibilities and pave the way for innovative technologies that can revolutionize the sector’s decarbonization efforts. These investments will contribute to meeting ambitious targets and foster economic growth and competitiveness in the evolving clean energy landscape. 

Mukesh Chatter is the CEO of Alsym Energy, a technology company developing a low-cost, high-performance rechargeable battery chemistry that is free of lithium and cobalt. 

 

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Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, News

The Shyft Group Achieves CARB Approval for Blue Arc™ EV Delivery Vans

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Blue Arc EVs Meet Emission Standards Set by the California Air Resources Board and Contribute to Cleaner, Safer Air Quality

225-mile city driving range exceeds fleet customer demand

The Shyft Group, Inc. , the North American leader in specialty vehicle manufacturing, assembly, and upfit for the commercial, retail, and service specialty vehicle markets, today announced it has completed testing and received an executive order of compliance from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for the Company’s Blue Arc™ EV Solutions Class 3, 4 and 5 electric delivery vehicles.

Within the executive order, CARB confirmed the city driving range of 225 miles for the Class 3 Blue Arc EVs under CARB test conditions, including three models offering 600, 700 or 800 cubic feet of cargo capacity. The Class 4 and 5 EVs provide 700 to 1,000 cubic feet.

Blue Arc has achieved a new benchmark for range in commercial EVs, which provides customers with the knowledge they can comfortably perform and in many cases exceed a daily last-mile delivery route and cargo capacity requirements.

CARB compliance means Blue Arc vehicles meet the stringent emission standards set by CARB, and the vehicles help contribute to cleaner and safer air quality, as well as a more sustainable platform to minimize fleet impact on the environment.

Together with Shyft’s recent announcement on EPA testing citing up to 200 mile range city/highway combined, the executive order and certification are important milestones that help clear the way for Shyft’s Blue Arc vans to start production later this year and be sold in all 50 states. The certifications are additionally significant because they will allow Blue Arc customers in a number of states with zero emission truck regulations to apply for and receive incentives.

Shyft also recently announced a $16-million investment at the company’s Charlotte, Michigan, campus to begin production of the electric vehicles in the second half of 2023.

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Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Ocean Ports

Propane Council Encourages Ports to Apply for Funding

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Grant funding applications are now open for safety, efficiency and reliability improvement projects.

The U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration (MARAD) recently opened applications for the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP). More than $600 million in grant funding is available for projects that include environmental and emissions mitigation measures and terminal equipment upgrades.

Heavy-duty diesel equipment in ports, such as forklifts and yard tractors, are a leading cause of air pollution within nearby communities. With this funding, ports can begin replacing their diesel and gasoline-powered equipment with clean energy alternatives such as propane-powered port tractors, forklifts, and other cargo handling equipment (CHE). In fact, best-in-class propane forklift engines produce 97 percent fewer hydrocarbon and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions when compared with similarly sized diesel forklifts without any drop-off in payload or power.

Along with CHE upgrades, propane-powered charging infrastructure, such as mobile charging pods and anti-idling shore power technologies, are also eligible for funding. This is a cost-effective and low-emissions strategy to provide immediate clean energy power for CHE and other mobile equipment. Because propane is affordable, ports can more quickly implement clean solutions to accelerate emissions reductions. 

Propane-powered microgrid projects are also eligible for PIDP grant funding. Microgrids are local, isolated and independent electric grids that can be either grid connected or disconnected. The microgrids produce power with a combination of propane generation equipment and renewable sources like wind and solar. By combining ultra-low emissions propane with renewable energy sources, ports are able to significantly reduce emissions.

Beyond emissions reductions, propane-powered microgrids provide autonomy and resilience that keeps the lights on, assures equipment is charged and assists with making sure containers stay moving in the ports — even when the grid fails.

Qualified projects can be located within the port, outside a port boundary and directly related to port operations, or as an intermodal port connection. Grant applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. EST on April 28, 2023. For grant writing support, reach out to PERC at Propane.com/Contact.

There are many ways propane can help ports improve efficiency and reduce their carbon footprints. To learn more, visit Propane.com/Ports.

Propane Education & Research Council (PERC)

The Propane Education & Research Council is a nonprofit that provides leading propane safety and training programs and invests in research and development of new propane-powered technologies. PERC is operated and funded by the propane industry. For more information, visit Propane.com.