AUSTRALIA – The CBH Group, an Australian cooperative, has reported promising initial results from participating in the Blue Visby project, a greenhouse gas emissions research consortium for the international shipping industry.
The trial, aimed at reducing CO2 emissions, showed significant potential for lowering emissions from maritime transport.
In June 2023, CBH Group joined the Blue Visby project, an innovative system designed to optimize ship arrival times, eliminating the common practice of “sail fast, then wait.”
The Blue Visby Solution analyzes various factors such as weather conditions, vessel performance, and destination congestion to determine the best arrival time.
It also provides the necessary information systems to support emissions measurement and a contractual framework for cost and benefit sharing.
CBH’s chief marketing and trading officer, Paul Smith expressed satisfaction with the initial trial outcomes: “We’re proud to have been involved in Blue Visby’s first trials, which have demonstrated positive results. Our involvement in the trial has provided valuable insights that will help us reduce emissions in future shipping programs.”
The March and April 2024 trials involved two CBH-chartered bulk vessels, the M/V Gerdt Oldendorff, and the M/V Begonia, traveling to the Kwinana Grain Terminal.
The ships’ performances were measured against digital twins in the Blue Visby system, evaluating speed, engine performance, arrival windows, and voyage parameters.
The M/V Gerdt Oldendorff showed CO2 savings of 7.9% at a speed of 12 knots and 28.17% at 14 knots. The M/V Begonia demonstrated a 12.9% reduction in CO2 emissions at an intended speed of 14 knots.
These findings align with a 2023 Blue Visby pilot program, which achieved an average CO2 saving of 18.9% across ten voyages.
Comprehensive testing and future plans
The success of these trials hinged on the thorough testing of all Blue Visby Solution components, including software and operational systems.
The trials are part of a broader program scheduled for the coming months involving multiple geographical areas and other Blue Visby consortium members.
CBH emphasized that the Blue Visby Solution integrates seamlessly with existing voyage planning processes, ensuring minimal disruption while delivering substantial carbon reduction benefits.
“The benefits will flow to our customers, who are also exploring how they can reduce emissions throughout the grain supply chain,” Smith added.
He acknowledged the collaborative effort among charterers, ship owners, and the CBH and Blue Visby teams, which made these results possible.
For all the latest grains industry news from Africa, the Middle East, and the World, subscribe to our weekly NEWSLETTERS, follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
