The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has approved Baltic shipping company ESL Shipping’s near and long-term emission reduction targets as the first company in the general cargo segment.
Approval means that the targets, which include ESL’s subsidiary AtoB@C Shipping, align with the latest climate science to limit global warming to 1.5 deg C in line with the Paris Agreement.
ESL Shipping has commited to reduce its well-to-wake GHG emissions by 59.6% per ton-nautical mile by 2030, which equals a 47.1% absolute reduction. In the long term, ESL Shipping is committed to achieve net zero emissions by 2040 and to reduce well-to-wake emissions by 97.8% from the 2023 base level.
Although outside the scope in the GHG Protocol, SBTi requires the use-phase emissions of transported fossil fuels to be included in the target boundary. ESL Shipping is committed to discontinue the transport of fossil fuels, such as energy coal, by 2030 at the latest and to reduce the emissions from the use-phase of transported fossil fuels by 100% by 2030 from the 2023 baseline.
Mikki Koskinen, MD ESL Shipping and Chairman AtoB@C Shipping, said: “This milestone reflects our deep commitment to climate action and the transformation of maritime logistics. Through fleet renewal, operational efficiency, and the increased use of renewable fuels, we are not only reducing emissions but also setting a new standard for sustainable shipping. Our transition plan is ambitious, but we are determined to deliver on it.”
Image: ESL company AtoB@C Shipping’s latest newbuild cargo vessels are a vital element in the Group’s emission reduction strategy (source: AtoB@C Shipping)
