Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” Line) has been selected again as a constituent of the FTSE Blossom Japan Index, one of the most recognized ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) index developed by FTSE Russell, wholly owned subsidiary of London Stock Exchange Group, for five years in a row since the index was launched in 2017.
The FTSE Blossom Japan Index selects Japanese companies that demonstrate strong ESG practices, and as of June 2021, 229 companies have been selected as constituents from among the 1,391 Japanese companies that constitute the FTSE Japan All Cap Index. The index has been adopted as a benchmark of ESG investing by Government Pension Investment Fund (GPIF) in Japan, the world’s largest public pension fund.
We have been addressing sustainability issues, mainly the environmental, and our initiatives are moving into full swing, with the reform of the organization and the promoting system to strengthen our sustainability management, with effect from April 1, 2021, so as to contribute to the solution of social issues, including climate change, thus to fulfill our mission as a lifeline that will support people’s lives and economies in the future.
Specifically, in March 2021, we have launched a next-generation environmentally friendly car carrier fueled by LNG (liquefied natural gas). Part of the construction funding for the vessel was procured through Climate Transition Loan as a first case in Japan.
Furthermore, earlier this month, we have signed a long-term consecutive voyage charter regarding the upcoming new built capesize bulk carrier (210,000 DWT), who will also be fueled by LNG and is scheduled to be delivered in 2024. The vessel aims to further reduce the environmental burden by installing an automated kite system, utilizing wind power, called “Seawing”.
Through our sustainability management, we will continue to contribute to the realization of a sustainable society, as well as strive to promote our own growth strategy and improve our corporate value.