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Archives for September 2023

“K” Line : Three Japanese Shipping Companies Partner to Establish Global Liquefied Hydrogen Supply Chain

September 26, 2023 by

Japan Suiso Energy, Ltd.

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd.

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd.

Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha

On September 12 2023, Japan Suiso Energy, Ltd. (JSE)*, and three Japanese shipping companies, Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE), Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL), and Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK), have agreed to join JSE Ocean, Ltd. (JSE Ocean), a subsidiary of JSE. JSE remains the majority shareholder with 50.2% of stock, whilst the shipping companies hold 16.6% each.

Concept image of 160,000㎥ liquefied hydrogen carrier provided by
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.

Hydrogen in Japan

The expectation for hydrogen as a clean energy is increasing worldwide as we strive to achieve a decarbonized society. Japan’s Basic Hydrogen Strategy, revised by the Japanese government in June 2023, identifies hydrogen as the alternative to fossil fuels as it targets decarbonisation. In the Strategy Japan commits to a target of 3 million tons/year of hydrogen by 2030, 12 million tons/year by 2040, and 20 million tons/year by 2050.

The target hydrogen supply cost is approximately JPY30 /Nm3 in 2030 and JPY20 /Nm3 in 2050 at the point of arrival in Japan. To achieve these price and volume targets, and create a secure global supply chain, transport by ship is crucial.

Background

In August 2021, Japan’sNew Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organisation (NEDO), allocated a grant from the Japanese government’s Green Innovation Fund to JSE, Iwatani Corporation and ENEOS Corporation for the “Liquefied Hydrogen Supply Chain Commercialization Demonstration Project”.

In this project, JSE will establish the world’s first large-scale hydrogen liquefaction and transportation technology, involving an initial 30,000 tons of hydrogen per year before upscaling. JSE will also demonstrate a comprehensive and reliable global liquefied hydrogen (LH2) supply chain, covering hydrogen production, liquefaction, export from Australia, marine transportation, and import.

About JSE Ocean

JSE Ocean was established in January 2023 to research the marine transportation of LH2 by using a large-scale LH2 carrier. JSE, and the three Japanese shipping companies with extensive knowledge and experience in the energy transport business, will establish the marine transport of LH2 at a commercial scale through JSE Ocean.

We will collaborate to explore the safety and efficient operation of the world’s first large-scale LH2 carrier by 2024, as well as develop a viable marine transportation business scheme. Furthermore, the LH2 carrier will be powered by hydrogen, significantly reducing CO2 emissions during operation.

* JSE was established in June 2021 with the main objectives of research, planning, management, and investment in the international supply chain of LH2. Current shareholder composition is Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. 66.6% Iwatani Corporation 33.4%.

Stock Holding Ratio

Overview of Each Company

JSE Ocean, Ltd.

Established: January 2023

Address: 14 5, Kaigan 1-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Representative: Kenjiro Shindo, President and CEO

Japan Suiso Energy, Ltd.

Established: June 2021

Address: Toranomon Seiwa Building 10 F, 1-2-3 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Representative: Eiichi Harada, President and CEO

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd.

Established: April 1919

Address: Iino Building, 1-1, Uchisaiwaicho 2-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

Representative: Yukikazu Myochin, Representative Director, President and CEO

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd.

Established: May 1884

Address: 2-1-1 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Representative: Takeshi Hashimoto, President and CEO

Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha

Established: September 1885

Address: 2-3-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

Representative: Takaya Soga, President and CEO

Filed Under: "K" Line

“K” Line : Acquisition of Third-Party Certification for CO2 Reduction Using Marine Biofuels and Completion of a Certificate Issuance System

September 25, 2023 by

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha., Ltd. (“K” LINE) carried out a test operation of the “K” LINE-operated supramax bulker “ALBION BAY” using marine biofuels last year, with the cooperation of JFE Steel Corporation and Sumitomo Corporation. “K” LINE has now established a system for certifying the amount of CO2 reduction from marine biofuels and issuing certificates, in association with Nippon Kaiji Kyokai（ClassNK） and has now certified the amount of CO2 reduction (heavy oil comparison) achieved during this test operation and issued a certificate.

Going forward, “K” LINE will continue to enhance corporate non-financial information disclosure to respond the needs from stakeholders, which is increasing year by year, as an initiative to quantitatively indicate the degree of environmental contributions of our customers’ supply chains (Scope 3 emissions).

“K” LINE group will continue to promote our low-carbon/decarbonization and low-carbon/decarbonized society in order to realize a sustainable society and increase its corporate value, based on its corporate principle of “Trust from all over the world as a logistics company rooted in the shipping industry, we help make the lives of people more affluent.”

(CO2 reduction certificate issued by “K” LINE)

*1: August 26, 2022: “K” LINE Conducts Trial Use of Marine Biofuel for Decarbonization on Supramax Bulker

https://www.kline.co.jp/en/news/drybulk/drybulk-4419591465105910059/main/0/link/220826EN.pdf

Filed Under: "K" Line

“K” Line : Joint Development of AI-Powered Automatic Draft Survey Application

September 25, 2023 by

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE), TIS Inc. (“TIS”) and Miotsukushi Analytics Inc. (“Miotsukushi”) are pleased to announce that we have jointly developed a draft survey application. The application is designed to use artificial intelligence (AI) to recognize the water surface and the draft mark from the image captured with a smartphone and to display the accurate draft level with the impact of waves removed on the screen to help accurately measure the draft*1. At the end of July, the three companies jointly filed a patent application for this newly developed application.

The draft is measured to calculate the weight of cargo loaded onto dry bulk carriers. Today, it is done by crew members and surveyors using the naked eye. It is possible to survey the draft with the human eye. However, it is done at the anchorage, which in some ports may be susceptible to waves. There have been cases where draft measurements even by experienced maritime professionals display a greater margin of error than expected.

The jointly developed automatic draft survey application makes use of the “AI and data analysis service” offered by TIS and Miotsukushi and combines smartphones with the AI to supplement draft measurement that traditionally depended on the experience of maritime professionals with the AI. That helps equalize the degree of safety in navigation and cargo operations and maximize the cargo transportation volume.

At “K” LINE, digitalization is underway as a functional strategy for realizing the business strategy in the medium-term management plan*2 announced in May 2022. With the use of data and digital technologies, “K” LINE will enhance the core values of safety, environmental conservation and quality in a bid to boost its competitiveness and corporate value.

Schematic of the application

*1:The vertical distance from the bottom of the hull to the water surface when the vessel is afloat

*2: Medium-term Management Plan (announced on May 9, 2022)

https://www.kline.co.jp/en/ir/management/strategy.html

Reference

DX Strategy 2023 (announced on December 22, 2022)

https://www.kline.co.jp/en/sustainability/dx_strategy.html

About TIS Inc. (https://www.tis.com/)

TIS Inc., a member of TIS INTEC Group, is a business partner to more than 3,000 companies in various sectors, including finance, industry, public services, and distribution services. It provides IT to support growth strategies, tackling various management challenges faced by its customers. Leveraging the industry knowledge and IT development capabilities it has cultivated over more than 50 years, TIS aims to realize a prosperous society by providing IT services that have been cocreated with society and customers in Japan and Asian region.

About Miotsukushi Analytics Co., Ltd. (https://mioana.com/)

Miotsukushi Analytics is a consulting firm that specializes in data analysis that combines statistics, machine learning, data mining, mathematical optimization and many other approaches with a focus on solving business problems. As a group of specialists that bring value to big data, it has an advantage not only in analytical processes but also in creating benefits for clients through the application of data sciences to business.

Features of the application

  • A model of high-accuracy detection of the draft mark and the water surface with the use of deep learning technologies.
  • A coordinate computing algorithm developed for calculating the draft through image detection.
  • Finally calculating an accurate draft through different approaches including leveling of continuously measured draft levels.
  • Designed for smartphones, the app can be used at sea where Internet access is unavailable since the processing is completed locally at the terminal.
Filed Under: "K" Line

Major maritime insurers join groundbreaking initiative to improve cargo safety

September 25, 2023 by

Safetytech Accelerator is pleased to confirm that major UK maritime insurers, the UK P&I Club and TT Club have signed up for its Cargo Fire & Loss Innovation Initiative (CFLII).

The Initiative, launched in February 2023, is a  multi-year collaborative technology acceleration programme focused on reducing cargo fires and loss in maritime and its impact. It is already supported by Anchor Partners COSCO Shipping Lines, Evergreen Line, HMM, Lloyd’s Register, Maersk, the Offen Group, ONE and Seaspan, which represent around 50% of the total liner shipping market.

The programme will help expedite the uptake of technology and best practice by identifying specific opportunities where technology can make a difference, shaping joint requirements, identifying technology solutions, undertaking trials and developing best practices and recommendations. It has already started working on solution for early fire detection in cargo hold.

The UK P&I Club, one of the world’s leading mutual insurers of third-party liabilities for ocean-going merchant ships, and TT Club, the market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry, are the first insurers to join the Initiative, joining the significant proportion of the world’s container carriers already involved in the open-innovation initiative.

Stuart Edmonston, Loss Prevention Director at UK P&I Club, said, “We are really excited to join this initiative, to roll our sleeves up and get involved with the other Anchor Partners. Fires on board container ships keep happening, with depressing regularity, often resulting in tragic loss of life and catastrophic damage to ship and cargo. A large proportion of these fires are completely preventable, and we find that losses could have been mitigated by better practices. This is an industry-wide problem that requires collaboration. The only way to improve safety is to work together, share ideas, and identify and utilise modern technological solutions.”

Mike Yarwood, Managing Director of Loss Prevention at TT Club commented on his organisation’s commitment to safety, and prevention of cargo-initiated fires in particular: “As an insurer of many elements of the container supply chain, we have long campaigned for improved certainty for classification, declaration and packing of cargo in containers.  We look forward to engaging with fellow partners to improve safety and certainty of outcome in the supply chain.”

Global Containerships Segment Director at Lloyd’s Register (LR), and Chair of the Maritime Cargo Fire and Loss Initiative, Nick Gross said, “I’m very excited to have UK P&I and TT Club join CFLII, now bringing in the insurer’s perspective to our work with the other anchor partners, to combat the risk of cargo fires and to make container shipping safer and more sustainable.”

Rich McLoughlin, CFLII Programme Director at Safetytech Accelerator, had this to say about the announcement, “We’re delighted to have both UK P&I Club and TT Club join this important initiative. We believe cross-industry collaboration around innovation is an essential component to reduce the incidence of large cargo fires and enhance the safety of seafarers and vessels. Together with the Anchor Partners we are already uncovering technologies and applications that have the potential to make significant progress to that goal.”

The Initiative has a broad technology scope, encompassing three significant topics of concern. The first relates to onboard cargo control, including whether cargo has been properly loaded, secured and monitored during transit. The second area covers onboard fire, the ability to rapidly detect fires and prevent propagation through effective onboard response, particularly on cargo vessels such as container ships and car-carriers. The third topic of concern relates to the challenges created by the increasing scale of vessels.

Shipping companies and other maritime stakeholders who would like to know more about the Initiative, together with technology companies interested in addressing the topics of concern, are invited to contact us for further information, using the form below.

Read the launch press release here and read more about the initiative here. [https://safetytechaccelerator.org/cargo-fire-and-loss-innovation-initiative/ ]

ENDS

About UK P&I Club

The UK P&I Club is a leading provider of P&I insurance and other services to the international shipping community. Established in 1869 the UK P&I Club insures over 250 million tonnes of owned and chartered shipping through its international offices and claims network. ‘A – /Stable’ rated by Standard & Poor’s, the UK P&I Club is renowned for its specialist skills and expertise which ensure ‘best in class’ underwriting, claims handling and loss prevention services.

The UK P&I Club is managed by Thomas Miller, an independent and international insurance, professional and investment services provider.

www.ukpandi.com

About TT Club

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. TT Club’s mission is to make the global transport and logistics industry safer, more secure and more sustainable.  Founded in 1968, the Club has more than 1100 Members, spanning container owners and operators, ports and terminals, and logistics companies, working across maritime, road, rail, and air. TT Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. It retains more than 97% of its Members with a third of its entire membership having chosen to insure with the Club for 20 years or more.

www.ttclub.com

About Safetytech Accelerator

Safetytech Accelerator is the first fully dedicated technology accelerator focused on advancing innovation in safety critical industries, with a mission to make the world safer and more sustainable through wider adoption of technology.

About Lloyd’s Register

Trusted maritime advisors, partnering with clients to drive performance across the ocean economy.

Lloyd’s Register (LR) is a global professional services group specialising in marine engineering and technology. We were created more than 260 years ago as the world’s first marine classification society, to improve and set standards for the safety of ships.

Today, we are a leading provider of classification and compliance services to the marine and offshore industries, helping our clients design, construct and operate their assets to accepted levels of safety and environmental compliance.

Filed Under: TT Club

PEMA and ICHCA sign MoU to advance sustainable practices and safety standards in the cargo handling sector.

September 20, 2023 by

Two international associations closely involved in the port and terminal industry are committing to cooperate in improving safety and sustainability across the global industry.  The Port Equipment Manufacturers  Association (PEMA) and International Cargo Handling Coordination Association (ICHCA) have announced their joint signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to effect their mutual aims.

20 September 2023

The collaboration will enable each organization to better achieve their objectives through a programme of cooperation, which will include agreed actions and initiatives, meetings, sharing and exchange of information and ad hoc task forces to enhance their respective impact on issues and topics where both organizations have a common interest.

The MoU provides a framework to pursue cooperative projects.   Though not a commitment of funds, the future cooperation that is agreed will enable each group to benefit from the common activities in their respective strategies, furthering a wider understanding where areas of joint interest have been identified.

PEMA’s President Achim Dries commented, “At PEMA we are thrilled to announce the signing of this Memorandum of Understanding with ICHCA.  It is a momentous step toward fostering greater collaboration and innovation within the maritime industry. This partnership holds immense significance for PEMA as it underscores our commitment to advancing the global port and terminal sector,” he said.

“Together with ICHCA, we are poised to harness collective expertise, drive sustainable practices, and elevate safety standards, all for the benefit of our industry stakeholders. This MoU signifies not only a union of two influential organizations but also a shared vision to shape the future of safer port equipment and operations. We look forward to strengthening this partnership and achieving remarkable milestones together.” 

In welcoming the initiative represented by the joint signing, Richard Steele, CEO of ICHCA added “At ICHCA we remain committed to our efforts to improve safety, security and sustainability in the global logistics supply chain, especially at the ship/port interface.  I believe our agreement with PEMA will significantly enhance our ability to deliver on that commitment. The mutual cooperation between our two organisations will be aimed at the universal understanding and application of measures for the safe handling. I am particularly pleased that ICHCA is now teaming up with such a highly respected organisation as PEMA; one that has a global reputation for passionate commitment and practical action to drive safety measures. I’m excited by the prospect of working together.”

A crucial element of the MoU will be an exchange of information and the collaboration of staff and association members, who can offer an unequalled wealth of professional expertise, which can become a fountain head of knowledge in best practice and improved standards throughout the industry worldwide.

ENDS

About ICHCA International

Established in 1952, ICHCA International is an independent, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving the safety, productivity and efficiency of cargo handling and movement worldwide. ICHCA’s privileged NGO status enables it to represent its members, and the cargo handling industry at large, in front of national and international agencies and regulatory bodies, while its Technical Panel provides best practice advice and develops publications on a wide range of practical cargo handling issues.

Operating through a series of national and regional chapters, including ICHCA Australia, ICHCA Japan and plus Correspondence and Working Groups, ICHCA provides a focal point for informing, educating, lobbying and networking to improve knowledge and best practice across the cargo handling chain.

www.ichca.com

Filed Under: ICHCA

TT Club : Fire not the only danger with lithium-ion batteries

September 7, 2023 by

TT Club, the specialist international freight insurance provider is seeking greater emphasis on the critical dangers of toxic gas emissions associated with lithium-ion battery fires.  The failure of such batteries has the potential to occur with no prior warning, or with such speed that there is typically no time to react to any warning signs.

London, 7th September 2023

Devastating consequences of rapidly spreading, and often challenging to extinguish fires involving the batteries particularly in electric vehicles (EV) on board ships, and other parts of the supply chain have been well-documented in recent months.  There is however less awareness of the highly toxic combustion products that are released and their respective impact to the health and wellbeing of those exposed to the gases.

Based on the evidence of past fires the time between the initiation of a failed battery igniting to a discharge of toxic vapour can be measured in seconds rather than minutes. This is due to a process known as thermal runaway.  The rapid sequence of events typically occurs where an internal electrical short within one of the battery cells generates heat; this breaks down the internal structure of the battery, increasing the rate of the reaction in an ever-increasing cycle.  There is often a dramatic release of energy in the form of heat and a significant emission of toxic gases.

Neil Dalus of TT endeavours to paint a picture of the dangers.  “During a lithium battery thermal runaway event, research has shown that significant amounts of vapour can be produced per kWh (kilowatt hour).  In many common supply chain scenarios, including ships’ holds and warehouses, the reality is that such vapour clouds are likely to accumulate. Even when the clouds are able to disperse, the potential toxic effects may occur at lower concentrations.”

Potential vapour volume production
Source: Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries 80 (2022)

Drivers, stevedores, ships’ crews and first responders attempting to control the blazes encounter what might appear to be smoke but is in fact a mix of toxic gases, generated quickly and in large volumes. These gases once in the atmosphere behave differently to smoke, often pooling at floor level due to their density.  “Traditionally where fires and smoke are concerned one would stay low to avoid inhalation, doing so where lithium battery fires are concerned is likely to prove problematic,” observes Dalus.

The toxicity of gases given off from any given lithium-ion battery differ from that of a typical fire and can themselves vary but all remain either poisonous or combustible, or both.  They can feature high percentages of hydrogen, and compounds of hydrogen, including hydrogen fluoride, hydrogen chloride and hydrogen cyanide, as well as carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide and methane among other dangerous chemicals.

In terms of hazards to the wellbeing of those in the vicinity of such an incident, one particularly problematic component is hydrogen fluoride (HF). Although HF is lighter than air and would disperse when released, a cloud of vapor and aerosol that is heavier than air may be formed (EPA 1993). On exposure to skin or by inhaling, HF can result in skin burns and lung damage that can take time (hours to weeks) to develop following exposure. HF will be quickly absorbed by the body via skin and lungs depleting vital calcium and magnesium levels in tissues, which can result in severe and possibly fatal systemic effects. The hydrogen content of the released gases can give rise to vapour cloud explosion risks which have the potential to cause significant damage.

TT advocates a range of measures to mitigate the risks. A prudent starting point would be to perform a fire risk assessment, considering the specific hazards presented by lithium-ion batteries. Risk mitigation considerations thereafter could include providing operatives with certified full-face self-contained breathing apparatus, chemical-resistant boots among other protective equipment, as well as drench showers for post-response decontamination. Strategic positioning of fire-fighting equipment should also be a key consideration. 

Early detection of such an incident can also be pivotal in managing the response, camera and thermal imaging could enable an expedient response. Such equipment might have already become commonplace for some modes, however conducting a thorough risk assessment for example when cargo is stored in warehouses would be prudent. As Dalus comments however, “Given the hazardous nature of this vapour, if any of these measures are not in place then the best course of action is to evacuate the area and leave the incident response to the emergency services, ensuring that the known risks are appropriately communicated.”

Consideration should also be given to the location of any incident that might include clean up and entry. The gases produced potentially leave toxic deposits on all surfaces and in the atmosphere. Therefore, once the incident is under control, potential hazards remain.

A full report on the dangers of emissions from lithium-ion fires, as well as detailed safety advice is available from TT’s websiteHERE

TT Club will be hosting a webinar on the subject of ‘Lithium-ion batteries in the logistics supply chain’ on 11th October.  To register to attend please click  Registration (gotowebinar.com)

About TT Club

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. TT Club’s primary objective is to help make the industry safer and more secure. Founded in 1968, the Club has more than 1100 Members, spanning container owners and operators, ports and terminals, and logistics companies, working across maritime, road, rail, and air. TT Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. It retains more than 97% of its Members, with a third of its entire membership having chosen to insure with the Club for 20 years or more.

www.ttclub.com

Filed Under: TT Club

“K” Line : MOU for Feasibility Study to Establish a Japan-Australia CCS Value Chain

September 7, 2023 by

Sumitomo Corporation (Sumitomo), Toho Gas Co., Ltd. (Toho Gas), Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) and Woodside Energy Ltd (Woodside) have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) to jointly conduct a feasibility study to establish a CCS (*1) value chain between Australia and Japan.

This study is to investigate the feasibility of establishing an entire CCS value chain among the four companies, whereby CO2 emissions from various industries and companies in the Chubu region, Japan, are hoped to be captured/accumulated, and liquefied by using such technology as CO2 separation and capture using unutilized LNG Cryogenic Energy” (*2) being developed by Toho Gas and transported to Australia by a low-temperature, low-pressure liquefied CO2 carrier for injection/storage at Australian storage site. Through this study, we will estimate the amount of CO2 to be captured, examine the optimal CO2 capture, accumulation and transportation methods, estimate the amount of CO2 that can be stored at storage sites in Australia, evaluate the necessary storage technologies and monitoring systems. In addition to the technical requirements, we will assess the relevant regulatory frameworks and the costs in each segment of the CCS value chain. The four companies aim to work together to assess the commercial viability of the CCS business.

The Japanese government has set a goal of reducing overall greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to Net Zero by 2050 and implemented a policy to develop a business environment to initiate CCS projects by 2030 in its “Basic Policy for the Realization of GX” (*3). CCS is expected to play a very important role in achieving GHG emission reduction targets as one of the primary decarbonization solutions.

Sumitomo Corporation, Toho Gas, “K” LINE, and Woodside plan to exchange information, knowledge, and experiences through the progression of this CCS initiative.


■ Sumitomo Corporation
Sumitomo Corporation has highlighted mitigation of climate change as one of its key areas of focus and has committed to being carbon neutral by 2050. Sumitomo Corporation recognizes that CCUS (*4) is a key technology to combat climate change, and in January 2023 established a dedicated global CCUS team within the Energy Innovation Initiative. This new team will capitalize on existing resources to establish new business along the whole CCUS value chain, including CO2 separation and capture, transport and storage and utilization of the captured carbon.

■ Toho Gas
Toho Gas Group is now accelerating efforts to reduce carbon emissions and even support decarbonization of its customers based on the ‘Toho Gas Group 2050 Carbon Neutrality Initiative’, centered on the use of three energy sources of gas, hydrogen and electricity. In the field of CCUS, Toho Gas Group is focusing on the development of technologies, including CO2 separation, and capture, and will contribute to the realization of a sustainable society by implementing CCUS in society across the full value chain, including CO2 separation/capture at the customer’s site, utilization and storage.

■ “K” LINE
“K” LINE group is promoting a variety of initiatives to support the low-decarbonization of its own operations and the low-decarbonization of society in accordance with its long-term environmental policy, “Environmental Vision 2050”. In the field of CCS, we are planning to start the world’s first full-scale carbon capture and storage (CCS) transport from next year. We will apply the knowledge gained through the operation of these vessels, which will be launched sequentially in Japan and overseas, to future business development, including this project, with the aim of realizing a sustainable society and enhancing corporate value.

■ Woodside Energy
Woodside Energy is an Australian energy company that is progressing CCS initiatives

*1 CCS: Carbon Capture, and Storage.

*2 CO2 separation and capture technology using unutilized LNG cryogenic energy
Technology to separate/capture CO2 contained in factory exhaust gas by chemical absorption method using a small amount of energy by using unutilized LNG cryogenic energy. This technology was adopted by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) as a “Green Innovation Fund Project / Development of Technology for CO2 Separation, Capture, etc.”

*3 “Basic Policy for the Realization of GX” (Released as of Feb 10th, 2023 by METI (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, JAPAN)

*4 CCUS: Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage.

Filed Under: "K" Line

Appointment to the Management Board of GEODIS

September 7, 2023 by

GEODIS, a world leader in transport and logistics, is pleased to announce the appointment of Xavier Avrard as Chief Strategy Officer. He will be a member of the Group’s Management Board, under the chairmanship of Marie-Christine Lombard, Chief Executive Officer of GEODIS.

Xavier Avrard, Chief Strategy Officer, GEODIS

Xavier Avrard joined GEODIS in 2014 as Group Controller. After contributing to the acquisition of OHL in 2015, he was appointed Managing Director for Projects Logistics, initially for Africa and then for the WEMEA region.

In 2019 he was named Senior Vice President of the Odyssey program, focusing on launching and managing the Group’s digital transformation program.

In January 2023, Xavier took over the strategic development of the Europe region, particularly the integration of trans-o-flex, a company recently acquired by GEODIS.

Since July 1, he leads the new Group Strategy Department. This department will be responsible for corporate strategy, mergers & acquisitions, post-merger integration and the monitoring of the Group’s strategic investments and developments.

Before joining GEODIS, Xavier Avrard held positions as financial controller and Chief Financial Officer with a number of major international groups. 

Xavier holds a Master’s degree in economics from the University of Bordeaux, and he was awarded a postgraduate diploma in management control and audit by the IAE (Institut d’Administration des Entreprises) in Bordeaux.

GEODIS – www.geodis.com    

GEODIS is a leading global logistics provider acknowledged for its expertise across all aspects of the supply chain. As a growth partner to its clients, GEODIS specializes in five lines of business: Supply Chain Optimization, Global Freight Forwarding, Global Contract Logistics, Distribution & Express, and European Road Network. With a global network spanning nearly 170 countries and more than 49,400 employees, GEODIS is ranked no. 6 in its sector across the world. In 2022, GEODIS generated €13.7 billion in revenue. GEODIS is a company owned by SNCF group. 

Filed Under: GEODIS

Intermarine and Jumbo-SAL-Alliance expand business and set up new hub in Chile

September 5, 2023 by

Multipurpose carrier Intermarine and sister company Jumbo-SAL-Alliance (JSA) expand their presence in South America, opening a new office in Santiago. JSA–Intermarine Chile is led by General Manager Nelson Matus.

The last few years have been dynamic and exciting for Intermarine and Jumbo-SAL-Alliance – and 2023 is just as eventful: With more industrial projects on the horizon, especially wind energy, Intermarine and JSA are taking advantage of the positive momentum and expanding in South America.

Intermarine’s MV Industrial Challenger in Chile

Intermarine and Jumbo-SAL-Alliance are joining Intermarine’s long-time agent, Marval, to form the new subsidiary JSA-Intermarine Chile. The first office to carry the name of both companies will be led by Nelson Matus, a veteran in the South American breakbulk and multipurpose sector with over 25 years of experience. Matus and his five-person team will take the lead in expanding the new Chilean business base.

“I’m extremely pleased that Nelson and his team are part of the Intermarine-JSA family. They have tremendous experience in the heavy lift and logistics business,” says Intermarine CEO Svend Andersen. “Intermarine and Marval have already collaborated successfully for many years now in South America. We’re excited to join forces and further expand our group presence in the region.”

Jens Baumgarten, Director Chartering & Projects at Jumbo-SAL-Alliance, explains: “Chile plays a significant role in South America due to its stable economy, geographic location, extensive raw material exports, reliable infrastructure and project outlooks, particularly in wind energy. The potential in the South American market and in Chile specifically is enormous, especially when it comes to the wind sector.”

“Our new joint branch gives customers access to the unique combination of Intermarine’s very strong Americas liner services and breakbulk business as well as JSA’s global project and semi-liner services”, adds Intermarine’s President Richard Seeg.

“We are very excited to join this ambitious and winning team,” stresses Nelson Matus. “The vibrant spirit, outstanding reputation and quality, and combined fleet of +50 vessels inspired us to take this wonderful opportunity.”

When SAL Heavy Lift took ownership of Intermarine back in late 2020, they followed a long-term strategy of developing the two enterprises as closely associated sister companies with different business models and offerings. This approach has proven highly successful. Intermarine’s business has thrived alongside SAL’s, showing the complementary nature of the fleets and service offerings. The new office in Chile is a good example of this success.

For Harren Group, Intermarine’s and SAL’s parent company, the branch is the 25th office worldwide. Harren Group CEO Dr Martin Harren explains: “It’s truly exciting to make our next strategic move: opening an office that represents both Intermarine and JSA with such an experienced and long-term partner as Marval. Everyone at Harren Group is proud to see Intermarine and JSA take this next step on their shared journey. This expansion not only strengthens our local business. It also elevates our global portfolio and the presence of our entire group.”

The new JSA-Intermarine Chile office (chile@intermarine.com, +56 2 2352 3400) is located in the World Trade Center in Las Condes (Nueva Tajamar 481, 14th Floor, office 1405, Tower South). Easily accessible, it is conveniently located near Santiago’s major business centres.

About Intermarine and Jumbo-SAL-Alliance: For over 125 years combined, Jumbo Maritime, SAL Heavy Lift and Intermarine have built the industry’s leading team of experts who have the resources, experience and spirit to provide exceptional services for their clients’ global cargo needs. Intermarine, with their frequent and flexible liner services between the US Gulf, NCSA, Caribbean, ECSA and WCSA, offers the fastest regional transit available. SAL Heavy Lift, together with commercial partner Jumbo Maritime, holds the largest and most advanced heavy lift fleet in the +800 t sector as well as an extensive network of offices on all continents. With their semi-liner and project shipping services, they can offer solutions that scale up to the most complex of heavy lift shipping projects. Having the flexibility of the Intermarine commercial setup paired with the versatility, commercial scale, engineering and project management capabilities of the combined SAL and Jumbo fleet, Jumbo-SAL-Alliance and Intermarine can transport cargos to any corner of the globe. Together, the three companies hold a fleet of +50 multipurpose and heavy lift vessels delivering the most reliable solutions for breakbulk, project and heavy lift cargoes across the Americas and beyond.

About Marval: Marval is a Chilean maritime service company founded in 1989 by current President, Francisco Lobos. The company has represented various shipping lines from around the world since its inception. Over the past 35 years, the second generation of leadership and a team of highly experienced executives have helped Marval evolve into a conglomerate of diversified enterprises covering multiple maritime transport sectors and logistics services in Chile and abroad. As a major stakeholder in central Chile’s main grain port with over 250,000 square metres of warehouses and depots spanning the coastline as well as strategic inland locations, Marval has become one of the country’s primary logistics providers for various industries – including mining, energy, refined grain, fruit and the retail sector.

Filed Under: Harren & Partner, SAL Heavy Lift

GEODIS will bring its logistics expertise to Rugby World Cup France 2023… the sporting event of the year!

September 5, 2023 by

Rugby World Cup 2023 runs from September 8 to October 28, 2023, in France. GEODIS has been chosen as Official Freight Carrier for the tournament. Behind this international sporting event lies a tailor-made logistics operation that will ensure the tournament runs smoothly.

The GEODIS group has assigned around 140 employees to the operational organization of this event. In all, some 80 tonnes of equipment essential to the teams will be airlifted to France, then transported between the teams’ hotels and the 10 host cities.

GEODIS is responsible for transporting equipment to and from the countries of origin of the various teams, located on five continents.

From the start of Rugby World Cup 2023 and throughout the 51 days of competition, more than 40 GEODIS drivers will be transporting equipment for the 20 participating teams, including players’ kit, as well as training and body-building equipment, between the teams’ base camps and the stadiums where the matches will be played. This represents an average of 4 tonnes of freight per team. For journeys of under 300 kilometers, road transport will be used with biogas-fueled vehicles. 

To provide all these services in France and in the teams’ home countries, GEODIS is relying on both its Freight Forwarding and Distribution & Express Lines of Business, with coordination handled by a dedicated control center based in Brive-la-Gaillarde, in southwest France.

Stéphane Cassagne, CEO France for GEODIS, said: “Transport and logistics are among the prerequisites of any successful sporting event. On the strength of our experience at Euro 2016 and the Women’s World Cup in 2019, we will be providing a robust, coordinated operational system for this prestigious sporting event, which embodies the values of commitment, trust and solidarity – values that mirror those of GEODIS. Our fast-acting, highly-skilled teams are capable of handling any contingency that may occur throughout the tournament, and thanks to them we are proud to be the Official Freight Carrier for Rugby World Cup France 2023.”

GEODIS – www.geodis.com    

GEODIS is a leading global logistics provider acknowledged for its expertise across all aspects of the supply chain. As a growth partner to its clients, GEODIS specializes in five lines of business: Supply Chain Optimization, Global Freight Forwarding, Global Contract Logistics, Distribution & Express, and European Road Network. With a global network spanning nearly 170 countries and more than 49,400 employees, GEODIS is ranked no. 6 in its sector across the world. In 2022, GEODIS generated €13.7 billion in revenue. GEODIS is a company owned by SNCF group. 

Filed Under: GEODIS
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