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Logistics

SAVANNAH, GA, July 26, 2021 (Press Release) -For the first time in its history, the Port of Savannah has moved 5.3 million twenty-foot equivalent container units, growing cargo volumes by 20 percent in FY2021, or nearly 900,000 TEUs compared to the previous year.

"American companies continue to choose the Port of Savannah as a critical gateway to global trade," said Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp. "Our ports play a major role in Georgia being named the number one state for business eight years in a row. I am thankful to GPA for their great work over the past year to grow Georgia’s trading capacity and expand our world-class business environment.”

Incoming GPA Board Chairman Joel Wooten thanked previous Chairman Will McKnight and Gov. Kemp for their leadership during a challenging year, as well as the partners and customers who helped Georgia Ports achieve record growth.

“GPA leadership, our employees and our partners across the logistics community put in tremendous effort to make this milestone possible,” Wooten said. “Growing our business by 20 percent in a single year is an amazing accomplishment and secures Savannah’s position as the fastest growing gateway in the nation over the past 10 years.”

GPA Executive Director Griff Lynch said the Savannah Harbor deepening, the Mason Mega Rail terminal and other capacity enhancements are not only preparing GPA for the present influx of cargo, but also for future demand.

“A major strength for the Port of Savannah is its ability to respond to the needs of customers as they expand their positions in Georgia,” Lynch said. “As port users continue to route additional cargo to Georgia, we are bullish on the future. We have an abundance of near-port property available for development, and GPA is right now adding millions of TEUs of additional capacity in Savannah.”

GPA’s trade in autos and heavy machinery also saw significant growth. Roll-on/Roll-off volumes reached 703,528 units crossing all GPA docks in FY2021, with the Port of Brunswick alone handling more than 685,000 units of vehicles and heavy machinery. Total Ro/Ro volume grew by 18 percent over the previous fiscal year, or an additional 106,150 units.

Highlights from the fiscal year include:

  • A 14 percent increase in total rail volumes at Garden City Terminal, up 68,000 lifts to a total of nearly 550,000 rail lifts on the year. At the Appalachian Regional Port, rail lifts grew by nearly 26 percent, an increase of 7,000, for an annual total of more than 34,000 lifts.
  • GPA added 210,000 TEUs of capacity at the Port of Savannah through expanded container handling space and equipment at Ocean Terminal.
  • The 16,000-TEU CMA CGM Marco Polo, the largest container ship to ever serve the U.S. East Coast, called on Garden City Terminal, Wednesday, May 26.
  • The Savannah Harbor Expansion Project is now nearly 90 percent complete. The project should wrap up in December 2021. With a high-tide depth of 54 feet, the deeper harbor will allow vessels in the 16,000+ TEU range to take on heavier loads with fewer tidal restrictions.
  • GPA’s $220 million Mason Mega Rail project is nearly complete. By the end of 2021, GPA will commission the second set of nine new working tracks. Mason Mega Rail will increase rail lift capacity to 2 million TEUs per year.
  • Despite the pandemic interrupting supply chains, the Governor’s Office and the Georgia Department of Economic Development won $8.43 billion in investment and more than 24,000 jobs in just the first three quarters of FY2021.

Georgia’s deepwater ports and inland barge terminals support more than 496,700 jobs throughout the state annually and contribute $29 billion in income, $122 billion in revenue and $3.4 billion in state and local taxes to Georgia’s economy. The Port of Savannah handled 9.3 percent of total U.S. containerized cargo volume and 10.5 percent of all U.S. containerized exports in FY2020.

Port of Savannah moves 5.3 million twenty-foot equivalent container units growing cargo volumes by 20% in FY2021

Posted in: Logistics 07/27/2021 - 01:03

SAVANNAH, GA, July 26, 2021 (Press Release) -For the first time in its history, the Port of Savannah has moved 5.3 million twenty-foot equivalent container units, growing cargo volumes by 20 percent in FY2021, or nearly 900,000 TEUs compared to the previous year.

"American companies continue to choose the Port of Savannah as a critical gateway to global trade," said Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp. "Our ports play a major role in Georgia being named the number one state for business eight years in a row. I am thankful to GPA for their great work over the past year to grow Georgia’s trading capacity and expand our world-class business environment.”

Incoming GPA Board Chairman Joel Wooten thanked previous Chairman Will McKnight and Gov. Kemp for their leadership during a challenging year, as well as the partners and customers who helped Georgia Ports achieve record growth.

“GPA leadership, our employees and our partners across the logistics community put in tremendous effort to make this milestone possible,” Wooten said. “Growing our business by 20 percent in a single year is an amazing accomplishment and secures Savannah’s position as the fastest growing gateway in the nation over the past 10 years.”

GPA Executive Director Griff Lynch said the Savannah Harbor deepening, the Mason Mega Rail terminal and other capacity enhancements are not only preparing GPA for the present influx of cargo, but also for future demand.

“A major strength for the Port of Savannah is its ability to respond to the needs of customers as they expand their positions in Georgia,” Lynch said. “As port users continue to route additional cargo to Georgia, we are bullish on the future. We have an abundance of near-port property available for development, and GPA is right now adding millions of TEUs of additional capacity in Savannah.”

GPA’s trade in autos and heavy machinery also saw significant growth. Roll-on/Roll-off volumes reached 703,528 units crossing all GPA docks in FY2021, with the Port of Brunswick alone handling more than 685,000 units of vehicles and heavy machinery. Total Ro/Ro volume grew by 18 percent over the previous fiscal year, or an additional 106,150 units.

Highlights from the fiscal year include:

  • A 14 percent increase in total rail volumes at Garden City Terminal, up 68,000 lifts to a total of nearly 550,000 rail lifts on the year. At the Appalachian Regional Port, rail lifts grew by nearly 26 percent, an increase of 7,000, for an annual total of more than 34,000 lifts.
  • GPA added 210,000 TEUs of capacity at the Port of Savannah through expanded container handling space and equipment at Ocean Terminal.
  • The 16,000-TEU CMA CGM Marco Polo, the largest container ship to ever serve the U.S. East Coast, called on Garden City Terminal, Wednesday, May 26.
  • The Savannah Harbor Expansion Project is now nearly 90 percent complete. The project should wrap up in December 2021. With a high-tide depth of 54 feet, the deeper harbor will allow vessels in the 16,000+ TEU range to take on heavier loads with fewer tidal restrictions.
  • GPA’s $220 million Mason Mega Rail project is nearly complete. By the end of 2021, GPA will commission the second set of nine new working tracks. Mason Mega Rail will increase rail lift capacity to 2 million TEUs per year.
  • Despite the pandemic interrupting supply chains, the Governor’s Office and the Georgia Department of Economic Development won $8.43 billion in investment and more than 24,000 jobs in just the first three quarters of FY2021.

Georgia’s deepwater ports and inland barge terminals support more than 496,700 jobs throughout the state annually and contribute $29 billion in income, $122 billion in revenue and $3.4 billion in state and local taxes to Georgia’s economy. The Port of Savannah handled 9.3 percent of total U.S. containerized cargo volume and 10.5 percent of all U.S. containerized exports in FY2020.

Read more

ARLINGTON, VA, July 20, 2021 (Press Release) -American Trucking Associations’ advanced seasonally adjusted (SA) For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index decreased 1.5% in June after falling 1% in May. In June, the index equaled 111.6 (2015=100) compared with 113.3 in May.

“Tonnage has definitely flattened out, on average, over the last six to nine months,” said ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello. “The good news is that it remains slightly above 2020 levels.

“Supply chain issues are likely putting some downward pressure on tonnage,” he said. “But it is also likely that tonnage isn’t growing as much as it could because of industry-specific supply constraints. This index is dominated by contract freight, and the for-hire truckload carriers have seen their tractor counts fall because they are having difficulty finding qualified drivers. It is difficult to move more tonnage with less equipment, which is why we are seeing strong volumes in the spot market as shippers scramble to get loads moved.”

May’s reading was revised down slightly to -1% from our June 22 press release.

Compared with June 2020, the SA index rose 0.5%, which was preceded by a 3.3% year-over-year increase in May. Year-to-date, compared with the same six months in 2020, tonnage is up 0.3%.

The not seasonally adjusted index, which represents the change in tonnage actually hauled by the fleets before any seasonal adjustment, equaled 116.2 in June, 2.4% above the May level (113.4). In calculating the index, 100 represents 2015. ATA’s For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index is dominated by contract freight as opposed to spot market freight.

Trucking serves as a barometer of the U.S. economy, representing 72.5% of tonnage carried by all modes of domestic freight transportation, including manufactured and retail goods. Trucks hauled 11.84 billion tons of freight in 2019. Motor carriers collected $791.7 billion, or 80.4% of total revenue earned by all transport modes.

ATA calculates the tonnage index based on surveys from its membership and has been doing so since the 1970s. This is a preliminary figure and subject to change in the final report issued around the 5th day of each month. The report includes month-to-month and year-over-year results, relevant economic comparisons, and key financial indicators.

ATA Truck Tonnage Index decreased 1.5% in June

Posted in: Logistics 07/21/2021 - 10:16

ARLINGTON, VA, July 20, 2021 (Press Release) -American Trucking Associations’ advanced seasonally adjusted (SA) For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index decreased 1.5% in June after falling 1% in May. In June, the index equaled 111.6 (2015=100) compared with 113.3 in May.

“Tonnage has definitely flattened out, on average, over the last six to nine months,” said ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello. “The good news is that it remains slightly above 2020 levels.

“Supply chain issues are likely putting some downward pressure on tonnage,” he said. “But it is also likely that tonnage isn’t growing as much as it could because of industry-specific supply constraints. This index is dominated by contract freight, and the for-hire truckload carriers have seen their tractor counts fall because they are having difficulty finding qualified drivers. It is difficult to move more tonnage with less equipment, which is why we are seeing strong volumes in the spot market as shippers scramble to get loads moved.”

May’s reading was revised down slightly to -1% from our June 22 press release.

Compared with June 2020, the SA index rose 0.5%, which was preceded by a 3.3% year-over-year increase in May. Year-to-date, compared with the same six months in 2020, tonnage is up 0.3%.

The not seasonally adjusted index, which represents the change in tonnage actually hauled by the fleets before any seasonal adjustment, equaled 116.2 in June, 2.4% above the May level (113.4). In calculating the index, 100 represents 2015. ATA’s For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index is dominated by contract freight as opposed to spot market freight.

Trucking serves as a barometer of the U.S. economy, representing 72.5% of tonnage carried by all modes of domestic freight transportation, including manufactured and retail goods. Trucks hauled 11.84 billion tons of freight in 2019. Motor carriers collected $791.7 billion, or 80.4% of total revenue earned by all transport modes.

ATA calculates the tonnage index based on surveys from its membership and has been doing so since the 1970s. This is a preliminary figure and subject to change in the final report issued around the 5th day of each month. The report includes month-to-month and year-over-year results, relevant economic comparisons, and key financial indicators.

Read more

PETERBOROUGH, UK, July 20, 2021 (Press Release) -Government plans to tackle the HGV driver shortage won’t help firms in the short-term.

Ministers have pledged to work with industry leaders to attract new drivers, simplify training and encourage people to stay in the sector.

But the RHA says the crisis is so great it needs immediate short-term measures allowing the industry to work towards the longer-term fixes.

RHA Chief Executive, Richard Burnett said, “This is a step in the right direction long-term, but it doesn’t address the critical short-term issues we’re facing. The problem is immediate, and we need to have access to drivers from overseas on short-term visas. The idea to simplify training and speed up testing is welcome; along with encouraging recruitment it will only improve things in a year or two’s time.”

The RHA continues to call on ministers to put HGV drivers on the Home Office Shortage Occupation List.

The HGV driver shortage stands at 100,000.

RHA continues to call on ministers as government's HGV driver shortage plans lack short term fixes

Posted in: Logistics 07/21/2021 - 08:05

PETERBOROUGH, UK, July 20, 2021 (Press Release) -Government plans to tackle the HGV driver shortage won’t help firms in the short-term.

Ministers have pledged to work with industry leaders to attract new drivers, simplify training and encourage people to stay in the sector.

But the RHA says the crisis is so great it needs immediate short-term measures allowing the industry to work towards the longer-term fixes.

RHA Chief Executive, Richard Burnett said, “This is a step in the right direction long-term, but it doesn’t address the critical short-term issues we’re facing. The problem is immediate, and we need to have access to drivers from overseas on short-term visas. The idea to simplify training and speed up testing is welcome; along with encouraging recruitment it will only improve things in a year or two’s time.”

The RHA continues to call on ministers to put HGV drivers on the Home Office Shortage Occupation List.

The HGV driver shortage stands at 100,000.

Read more

LONDON, July 20, 2021 (Press Release) -Measures introduced to support recruitment and retention within the road haulage industry to ease pressure on the sector.

  • industry and government join forces to tackle heavy goods (HGV) driver shortages
  • measures include launch of new consultations to provide as many HGV driving tests as possible
  • government to work with industry to encourage more drivers into the profession and ease pressure on sector

A package of measures to help tackle the HGV driver shortage has today (20 July 2021) been announced by the government.

In an open letter to the road haulage sector, ministers have pledged to work with industry leaders to attract new drivers, simplify training and encourage people to stay in the industry.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has already worked to ensure almost 1,500 HGV drivers pass their driving test every week but the government is going further still to make sure new drivers get up and running in the industry as quickly as possible.

A new consultation will be launched on allowing drivers to take one test to drive both an articulated and rigid lorry. This would streamline the process for new drivers to gain their HGV licence and would increase lorry test appointment availability. The consultation will ensure road safety is paramount and set out that drivers will still be supervised until fully qualified.

The consultation will also look at allowing trainers to actually examine drivers in the off-road manoeuvres part of the HGV driving test, and look at whether specific car and trailer tests should be required. This will allow a significant increase in the number of HGV driving tests to be conducted whilst maintaining road safety standards.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said:

I want to thank all those in the road haulage industry who have worked so hard throughout the pandemic to provide such a vital service.

I understand the challenges faced by drivers and operators right now and while longer-term solutions must be led first and foremost by industry leaders, today we are saying this government is here to help.

This set of measures will kickstart that help, easing pressure on the sector as we work together to attract new drivers, improve conditions and ensure the industry’s future is a prosperous one.

The government is also looking to help the road haulage sector improve the working conditions of drivers – something which is key to addressing the shortage and encouraging British workers to forge long, successful careers in the sector. It will support this, initially, by working alongside the industry to support more official parking spaces for lorry drivers and look at ways to improve the standard of lorry parks.

Ministers are also keen to hear more from sector leaders about an industry-led Year of Logistics, looking at various other ways to attract more people to join the industry from all parts of society.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Therese Coffey said:

As part of our Plan for Jobs, we are helping people gain the skills and experience needed to take up opportunities in the haulage sector, including access to key training, and our Jobcentres are playing a vital role in matching jobseekers with the right roles in the sector.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will continue to encourage those who have already left the industry to re-join, confirming that they are developing a new driver training pilot through Jobcentre Plus to bring job-seekers into the industry.

The government has also called on local councils to be flexible around delivery times to supermarkets and other retailers, allowing drivers to make deliveries earlier in the morning or later in the evening where necessary.

Environment Secretary George Eustice said:

Our road haulage key workers have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic and formed a vital part of the unprecedented response, moving goods and ensuring supplies kept flowing across the nation.

The government is committed to supporting the logistics industry, which is why we are introducing this package of practical measures to support recruitment and retention of drivers. This follows the recent relaxation to drivers’ hours and supermarket delivery hour restrictions to further support the industry.

The recently announced temporary relaxation of drivers’ hours rules allows HGV drivers to make slightly longer journeys, but must only be used where necessary and must not compromise driver safety.

UK government announces package of measures to support road haulage industry

Posted in: Logistics 07/21/2021 - 05:40

LONDON, July 20, 2021 (Press Release) -Measures introduced to support recruitment and retention within the road haulage industry to ease pressure on the sector.

  • industry and government join forces to tackle heavy goods (HGV) driver shortages
  • measures include launch of new consultations to provide as many HGV driving tests as possible
  • government to work with industry to encourage more drivers into the profession and ease pressure on sector

A package of measures to help tackle the HGV driver shortage has today (20 July 2021) been announced by the government.

In an open letter to the road haulage sector, ministers have pledged to work with industry leaders to attract new drivers, simplify training and encourage people to stay in the industry.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has already worked to ensure almost 1,500 HGV drivers pass their driving test every week but the government is going further still to make sure new drivers get up and running in the industry as quickly as possible.

A new consultation will be launched on allowing drivers to take one test to drive both an articulated and rigid lorry. This would streamline the process for new drivers to gain their HGV licence and would increase lorry test appointment availability. The consultation will ensure road safety is paramount and set out that drivers will still be supervised until fully qualified.

The consultation will also look at allowing trainers to actually examine drivers in the off-road manoeuvres part of the HGV driving test, and look at whether specific car and trailer tests should be required. This will allow a significant increase in the number of HGV driving tests to be conducted whilst maintaining road safety standards.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said:

I want to thank all those in the road haulage industry who have worked so hard throughout the pandemic to provide such a vital service.

I understand the challenges faced by drivers and operators right now and while longer-term solutions must be led first and foremost by industry leaders, today we are saying this government is here to help.

This set of measures will kickstart that help, easing pressure on the sector as we work together to attract new drivers, improve conditions and ensure the industry’s future is a prosperous one.

The government is also looking to help the road haulage sector improve the working conditions of drivers – something which is key to addressing the shortage and encouraging British workers to forge long, successful careers in the sector. It will support this, initially, by working alongside the industry to support more official parking spaces for lorry drivers and look at ways to improve the standard of lorry parks.

Ministers are also keen to hear more from sector leaders about an industry-led Year of Logistics, looking at various other ways to attract more people to join the industry from all parts of society.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Therese Coffey said:

As part of our Plan for Jobs, we are helping people gain the skills and experience needed to take up opportunities in the haulage sector, including access to key training, and our Jobcentres are playing a vital role in matching jobseekers with the right roles in the sector.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will continue to encourage those who have already left the industry to re-join, confirming that they are developing a new driver training pilot through Jobcentre Plus to bring job-seekers into the industry.

The government has also called on local councils to be flexible around delivery times to supermarkets and other retailers, allowing drivers to make deliveries earlier in the morning or later in the evening where necessary.

Environment Secretary George Eustice said:

Our road haulage key workers have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic and formed a vital part of the unprecedented response, moving goods and ensuring supplies kept flowing across the nation.

The government is committed to supporting the logistics industry, which is why we are introducing this package of practical measures to support recruitment and retention of drivers. This follows the recent relaxation to drivers’ hours and supermarket delivery hour restrictions to further support the industry.

The recently announced temporary relaxation of drivers’ hours rules allows HGV drivers to make slightly longer journeys, but must only be used where necessary and must not compromise driver safety.

Read more

ANTWERP, Belgium, July 15, 2021 (Press Release) -The European funding programme Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), which supports projects that have a significant positive impact on the European transport network, is to award funding of €10.91 million to the complex project Extra Container Capacity Antwerp (ECA). By awarding funding to this project, Europe is not only underlining the importance of the port of Antwerp as a major European hub that forms part a global network, but also of the corresponding need for future-proof infrastructure. This European support will be used to carry out detailed studies to identify the most sustainable solution, in order to create a supported project that reconciles the needs of the economy, the environment and our climate.

Funding totalling €10.91 million to perform studies

Earlier this year, the European Commission launched a call for applications for funding under the CEF programme, which supports European transport policy. Port of Antwerp and the Department of Mobility and Public Works submitted a joint application in connection with the studies that form part of the complex project Extra Container Capacity Antwerp. Today, the European Member States approved the list of selected projects. ECA is therefore set to receive €10.91 million of European funding to achieve its ambitious objectives in the areas of sustainable growth and multimodal transport. The co-financing will be used to finance the planned studies that form part of the elaboration phase of the project. Those studies are essential in order to ensure that the project is implemented in a way that most effectively serves the needs of the economy, while also enhancing quality of life. Besides expansion, the project will also focus on optimising the use of land within the existing port area. The technical study into the design of the second tidal dock envisages a solution that will ensure maximum efficiency, while minimising the impact on the environment.

An important hub linking Europe and the world

Despite the impact of the coronavirus crisis, the world economy is recovering at a rapid pace and Port of Antwerp is also seeing a significant increase in all cargo flows, with the container segment witnessing the biggest growth. Extra capacity in the port of Antwerp is therefore essential in order to absorb the expected growth and to consolidate its position as a key hub within a global network. The funding from the CEF confirms the high added value of the ECA project as a forward-looking response to the bottleneck already being faced by container traffic. ECA seeks to bring about a modal shift, in which goods will increasingly be transported by inland navigation and rail. This will reduce emissions and optimise the connection with the hinterland, which will be of value both to the economy and also to the environment.

A ‘dock of the future’

In response to Europe's ambitions under the 'Green Deal' and the Flemish mobility policy, ECA represents a crucial step in Port of Antwerp's vision of being a home port for a sustainable future. Expanding the port's container capacity will therefore primarily take the form of innovative solutions that serve to create infrastructure that is both future-proof and climate-proof at the same time. In this way, Port of Antwerp will continue to play a pioneering role in the greening of the container sector and will set a new standard in that regard. The ‘dock of the future’ will take the form of hyper-efficient terminals and high productivity, combined with an exceptionally low footprint. Emissions from ships and from terminals in the port will be kept to a minimum by means of low-emission handling technologies, shore-based power, circular construction techniques and stricter regulations.  In terms of logistics, ECA will in turn act as the lever that will enable transportation to become more environmentally friendly through the use of rail and inland navigation. Constructive cooperation and European funding will be indispensable if this greening process is to become a reality.

Lydia Peeters, the Flemish Minister for Mobility and Public Works: “We are very excited to have been allocated European funding for three of our Flemish investment projects. This will enable us to shape the future mobility of Flanders and of Europe and will also provide a significant boost to the Flemish economy. The ECA project is an example of a project that focuses on future-oriented infrastructure: a sustainable solution that responds to the urgent need for extra capacity in the port of Antwerp.”

Annick De Ridder, Port Alderman: “This European support once again confirms the importance of ECA for our port, and also underlines the value that Europe attaches to this dossier. The importance of the container sector for the port of Antwerp should not be underestimated, and our growth figures in this segment confirm the need for extra capacity year after year. This European support is also confirmation of the important position that the port of Antwerp occupies as a gateway to and from the world for our Flemish and European companies."

Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO of Port of Antwerp: “The container segment has continued to grow, even during the challenging year we have just experienced. This therefore confirms the urgent need for additional capacity. However, the manner in which we create that additional capacity is at least as important. It must be achieved in a sustainable way that respects the climate and the environment, so that is why we are fully engaged in realising a more carefully designed project that is future-proof and climate-friendly at the same time. We are setting a new standard in the container business as a means of accelerating the greening of the industry.”

Port of Antwerp to receive funding of Euro 10.9 million by European funding programme CEF for its complex project ECA

Posted in: Logistics 07/20/2021 - 06:46

ANTWERP, Belgium, July 15, 2021 (Press Release) -The European funding programme Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), which supports projects that have a significant positive impact on the European transport network, is to award funding of €10.91 million to the complex project Extra Container Capacity Antwerp (ECA). By awarding funding to this project, Europe is not only underlining the importance of the port of Antwerp as a major European hub that forms part a global network, but also of the corresponding need for future-proof infrastructure. This European support will be used to carry out detailed studies to identify the most sustainable solution, in order to create a supported project that reconciles the needs of the economy, the environment and our climate.

Funding totalling €10.91 million to perform studies

Earlier this year, the European Commission launched a call for applications for funding under the CEF programme, which supports European transport policy. Port of Antwerp and the Department of Mobility and Public Works submitted a joint application in connection with the studies that form part of the complex project Extra Container Capacity Antwerp. Today, the European Member States approved the list of selected projects. ECA is therefore set to receive €10.91 million of European funding to achieve its ambitious objectives in the areas of sustainable growth and multimodal transport. The co-financing will be used to finance the planned studies that form part of the elaboration phase of the project. Those studies are essential in order to ensure that the project is implemented in a way that most effectively serves the needs of the economy, while also enhancing quality of life. Besides expansion, the project will also focus on optimising the use of land within the existing port area. The technical study into the design of the second tidal dock envisages a solution that will ensure maximum efficiency, while minimising the impact on the environment.

An important hub linking Europe and the world

Despite the impact of the coronavirus crisis, the world economy is recovering at a rapid pace and Port of Antwerp is also seeing a significant increase in all cargo flows, with the container segment witnessing the biggest growth. Extra capacity in the port of Antwerp is therefore essential in order to absorb the expected growth and to consolidate its position as a key hub within a global network. The funding from the CEF confirms the high added value of the ECA project as a forward-looking response to the bottleneck already being faced by container traffic. ECA seeks to bring about a modal shift, in which goods will increasingly be transported by inland navigation and rail. This will reduce emissions and optimise the connection with the hinterland, which will be of value both to the economy and also to the environment.

A ‘dock of the future’

In response to Europe's ambitions under the 'Green Deal' and the Flemish mobility policy, ECA represents a crucial step in Port of Antwerp's vision of being a home port for a sustainable future. Expanding the port's container capacity will therefore primarily take the form of innovative solutions that serve to create infrastructure that is both future-proof and climate-proof at the same time. In this way, Port of Antwerp will continue to play a pioneering role in the greening of the container sector and will set a new standard in that regard. The ‘dock of the future’ will take the form of hyper-efficient terminals and high productivity, combined with an exceptionally low footprint. Emissions from ships and from terminals in the port will be kept to a minimum by means of low-emission handling technologies, shore-based power, circular construction techniques and stricter regulations.  In terms of logistics, ECA will in turn act as the lever that will enable transportation to become more environmentally friendly through the use of rail and inland navigation. Constructive cooperation and European funding will be indispensable if this greening process is to become a reality.

Lydia Peeters, the Flemish Minister for Mobility and Public Works: “We are very excited to have been allocated European funding for three of our Flemish investment projects. This will enable us to shape the future mobility of Flanders and of Europe and will also provide a significant boost to the Flemish economy. The ECA project is an example of a project that focuses on future-oriented infrastructure: a sustainable solution that responds to the urgent need for extra capacity in the port of Antwerp.”

Annick De Ridder, Port Alderman: “This European support once again confirms the importance of ECA for our port, and also underlines the value that Europe attaches to this dossier. The importance of the container sector for the port of Antwerp should not be underestimated, and our growth figures in this segment confirm the need for extra capacity year after year. This European support is also confirmation of the important position that the port of Antwerp occupies as a gateway to and from the world for our Flemish and European companies."

Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO of Port of Antwerp: “The container segment has continued to grow, even during the challenging year we have just experienced. This therefore confirms the urgent need for additional capacity. However, the manner in which we create that additional capacity is at least as important. It must be achieved in a sustainable way that respects the climate and the environment, so that is why we are fully engaged in realising a more carefully designed project that is future-proof and climate-friendly at the same time. We are setting a new standard in the container business as a means of accelerating the greening of the industry.”

Read more

BRUSSELS, July 14, 2021 (Press Release) -CLECAT welcomes the package of energy and climate laws tabled by the European Commission today, aimed at reaching the EU’s 2030 goal of cutting emissions by 55%. Many of the legislative proposals will accelerate the green transition of the transport and logistics sector in Europe. The success of the decarbonisation of the sector will depend on proper enforcement and sufficient investment incentives for the transport and logistics sector.

‘The Commission should ensure that the industry speeds up its response to climate change. But increasing the price of CO2 and energy is not sufficient to ensure a switch to zero-emission transport and logistics. As long as there are no alternatives available, bridging technologies must find equal recognition, otherwise the rules will merely result in a cost increase for the sector and not in a technology switch in this decade,’ noted Nicolette van der Jagt, Director General of CLECAT. She continued: ‘Revenues from CO2 pricing for freight transport should be returned to the transport sector in the form of subsidy programmes for investments in green vehicles, technology and innovation in infrastructure. It remains important to reach economies of scale in zero-emission transport, to ensure new options become affordable.’

The revision of the Energy Tax Directive (ETD) will significantly increase the cost structure of logistics in view of the increase in taxation of fossil fuels. The Commission needs to recognise that low carbon fuels will equally play a crucial role in the coming years. During this transitional period, incentives for low carbon fuels will be needed without creating any lock-in effects.

CLECAT takes note of the Commission's plan to include road transport into a carbon market. In view of already existing schemes at national level on ETS, CLECAT underlines that double charging of CO2 must be avoided. The Commission as well as Member States need to consider the different sectoral policies to ensure coherence with existing relevant EU laws such as the revised Eurovignette Directive.

Furthermore, the Commission plans to expand the EU ETS to cover the maritime sector, which CLECAT supports. However, CLECAT had hoped for a more ambitious carbon market scheme, covering all voyages, whether incoming or departing from EU ports.

In the field of aviation, CLECAT particularly welcomes the proposals to increase the production, deployment, and supply of affordable, high-quality alternative sustainable aviation fuels in Europe.

CLECAT welcomes the proposals for binding national targets for the alternative fuels infrastructure development in different freight transport modes.  Ms van der Jagt noted: ‘If we want all freight transport trucks to switch to electric, logistics and transport companies, operating internationally, need to be confident they can charge and refuel their vehicles wherever they go. Since OEMs will start to produce massively in zero emission technologies in less than 10 years, the EU needs to prepare for this now and start to roll out the necessary infrastructure along Europe’s TEN-T network.’

Ms van der Jagt concluded: ‘Over the coming weeks, CLECAT will come out with a detailed response to the proposals. CLECAT supports the urgency for the transport and logistics sector and their customers to address the issue of climate change. The process whereby sustainable solutions are agreed upon and invested in will be complex and requires immediate initiatives and a clear pathway towards reaching the new 2030 climate target, if global connectivity and prosperity are to be maintained. We trust that the Council and the European Parliament will seek to fine-tune the legislative proposals, whilst ensuring that the goals remain ambitious but equally achievable, particularly in the coming decade when costs will increase but alternatives are not yet widely available. Otherwise, clean trucking, flying and shipping will remain a pipe-dream for governments.’

CLECAT welcomes package of energy and climate laws by European Commission to reach EU’s 2030 goal of cutting emissions by 55%

Posted in: Logistics 07/20/2021 - 04:41

BRUSSELS, July 14, 2021 (Press Release) -CLECAT welcomes the package of energy and climate laws tabled by the European Commission today, aimed at reaching the EU’s 2030 goal of cutting emissions by 55%. Many of the legislative proposals will accelerate the green transition of the transport and logistics sector in Europe. The success of the decarbonisation of the sector will depend on proper enforcement and sufficient investment incentives for the transport and logistics sector.

‘The Commission should ensure that the industry speeds up its response to climate change. But increasing the price of CO2 and energy is not sufficient to ensure a switch to zero-emission transport and logistics. As long as there are no alternatives available, bridging technologies must find equal recognition, otherwise the rules will merely result in a cost increase for the sector and not in a technology switch in this decade,’ noted Nicolette van der Jagt, Director General of CLECAT. She continued: ‘Revenues from CO2 pricing for freight transport should be returned to the transport sector in the form of subsidy programmes for investments in green vehicles, technology and innovation in infrastructure. It remains important to reach economies of scale in zero-emission transport, to ensure new options become affordable.’

The revision of the Energy Tax Directive (ETD) will significantly increase the cost structure of logistics in view of the increase in taxation of fossil fuels. The Commission needs to recognise that low carbon fuels will equally play a crucial role in the coming years. During this transitional period, incentives for low carbon fuels will be needed without creating any lock-in effects.

CLECAT takes note of the Commission's plan to include road transport into a carbon market. In view of already existing schemes at national level on ETS, CLECAT underlines that double charging of CO2 must be avoided. The Commission as well as Member States need to consider the different sectoral policies to ensure coherence with existing relevant EU laws such as the revised Eurovignette Directive.

Furthermore, the Commission plans to expand the EU ETS to cover the maritime sector, which CLECAT supports. However, CLECAT had hoped for a more ambitious carbon market scheme, covering all voyages, whether incoming or departing from EU ports.

In the field of aviation, CLECAT particularly welcomes the proposals to increase the production, deployment, and supply of affordable, high-quality alternative sustainable aviation fuels in Europe.

CLECAT welcomes the proposals for binding national targets for the alternative fuels infrastructure development in different freight transport modes.  Ms van der Jagt noted: ‘If we want all freight transport trucks to switch to electric, logistics and transport companies, operating internationally, need to be confident they can charge and refuel their vehicles wherever they go. Since OEMs will start to produce massively in zero emission technologies in less than 10 years, the EU needs to prepare for this now and start to roll out the necessary infrastructure along Europe’s TEN-T network.’

Ms van der Jagt concluded: ‘Over the coming weeks, CLECAT will come out with a detailed response to the proposals. CLECAT supports the urgency for the transport and logistics sector and their customers to address the issue of climate change. The process whereby sustainable solutions are agreed upon and invested in will be complex and requires immediate initiatives and a clear pathway towards reaching the new 2030 climate target, if global connectivity and prosperity are to be maintained. We trust that the Council and the European Parliament will seek to fine-tune the legislative proposals, whilst ensuring that the goals remain ambitious but equally achievable, particularly in the coming decade when costs will increase but alternatives are not yet widely available. Otherwise, clean trucking, flying and shipping will remain a pipe-dream for governments.’

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GENEVA, July 16, 2021 (Press Release) -MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) and Shell International Petroleum Company Limited (Shell) have agreed to work closely together to help accelerate the decarbonisation of the global shipping sector. The long-term memorandum of understanding will help MSC and Shell to play enhanced roles in the energy transformation of shipping, as developers and early adopters of innovative technologies and fuel solutions.

The companies plan to develop a range of safe, sustainable and competitive technologies that can reduce emissions from existing assets and help to enable a net-zero emissions future for shipping.

Bud Darr, EVP Maritime Policy and Government Affairs, MSC Group, said: “MSC’s efforts to decarbonise include strong partnerships with a range of companies across the industry. This partnership with Shell is a great example of the type of commitment that is needed to catalyse low-carbon solutions for the shipping sector.

“To reach that ultimate goal of complete decarbonisation, we must look at a set of solutions. We need significant advances in research and development and fuel development. MSC welcomes partnerships like this with Shell that are designed to facilitate cross-sector information sharing and prove how collaboration is key in defining the best pathway to a net-zero future,” said Darr.

Melissa Williams, President, Shell Marine, said: “Shell wants to play a central role in the transition to net zero. Partnering with our customers to develop new technologies and fuels will help accelerate progress. Combining MSC’s experience as one of the world’s largest shipping companies with Shell’s expertise as a global energy supplier will help bring about effective solutions for this vital part of the world economy.”

Shell and MSC have worked together over the last 10 years on projects, including bunkering biofuels and trialling very and ultra-low sulphur fuels.

MSC and Shell technical and commercial teams will collaborate to develop and deploy net-zero solutions such as zero-emission fuels of the future and the technologies that will enable them, including fuel cells, with the ambition of contributing towards a zero-carbon flexi-fuel concept vessel. They will also work together on energy efficiency technologies, including digital services and platforms.

The partners continue to envisage a range of fuel solutions on the route to a net zero future and are also exploring options such as hydrogen-derived fuels and the use of methanol as a marine fuel. Both companies each have been exploring the significant potential benefits of progressing from fossil-based liquefied natural gas (LNG) to bio-LNG or synthetic variants. Together, the partners will explore opportunities for MSC to use LNG in its fleet, as the lowest emissions fuel widely available today. They will also consider future pathways, including methane-slip abatement technologies that will further bring down LNG’s emissions.

The partnership also offers an opportunity for Shell and MSC to work together to engage the industry and its stakeholders on strategic policy issues, bringing their dual perspectives with the purpose of enabling constructive dialogue and to accelerate decarbonisation in the sector.

Mediterranean Shipping Company and Shell International Petroleum Company collaborate to help accelerate decarbonization of global shipping sector

Posted in: Logistics 07/16/2021 - 03:36

GENEVA, July 16, 2021 (Press Release) -MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) and Shell International Petroleum Company Limited (Shell) have agreed to work closely together to help accelerate the decarbonisation of the global shipping sector. The long-term memorandum of understanding will help MSC and Shell to play enhanced roles in the energy transformation of shipping, as developers and early adopters of innovative technologies and fuel solutions.

The companies plan to develop a range of safe, sustainable and competitive technologies that can reduce emissions from existing assets and help to enable a net-zero emissions future for shipping.

Bud Darr, EVP Maritime Policy and Government Affairs, MSC Group, said: “MSC’s efforts to decarbonise include strong partnerships with a range of companies across the industry. This partnership with Shell is a great example of the type of commitment that is needed to catalyse low-carbon solutions for the shipping sector.

“To reach that ultimate goal of complete decarbonisation, we must look at a set of solutions. We need significant advances in research and development and fuel development. MSC welcomes partnerships like this with Shell that are designed to facilitate cross-sector information sharing and prove how collaboration is key in defining the best pathway to a net-zero future,” said Darr.

Melissa Williams, President, Shell Marine, said: “Shell wants to play a central role in the transition to net zero. Partnering with our customers to develop new technologies and fuels will help accelerate progress. Combining MSC’s experience as one of the world’s largest shipping companies with Shell’s expertise as a global energy supplier will help bring about effective solutions for this vital part of the world economy.”

Shell and MSC have worked together over the last 10 years on projects, including bunkering biofuels and trialling very and ultra-low sulphur fuels.

MSC and Shell technical and commercial teams will collaborate to develop and deploy net-zero solutions such as zero-emission fuels of the future and the technologies that will enable them, including fuel cells, with the ambition of contributing towards a zero-carbon flexi-fuel concept vessel. They will also work together on energy efficiency technologies, including digital services and platforms.

The partners continue to envisage a range of fuel solutions on the route to a net zero future and are also exploring options such as hydrogen-derived fuels and the use of methanol as a marine fuel. Both companies each have been exploring the significant potential benefits of progressing from fossil-based liquefied natural gas (LNG) to bio-LNG or synthetic variants. Together, the partners will explore opportunities for MSC to use LNG in its fleet, as the lowest emissions fuel widely available today. They will also consider future pathways, including methane-slip abatement technologies that will further bring down LNG’s emissions.

The partnership also offers an opportunity for Shell and MSC to work together to engage the industry and its stakeholders on strategic policy issues, bringing their dual perspectives with the purpose of enabling constructive dialogue and to accelerate decarbonisation in the sector.

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JOHANNESBURG, July 14, 2021 (Press Release) -The unfortunate incidents of civil unrest, violence and criminal activity which are being widely reported through news channels are also impacting Sappi’s South African operations. Our primary concern is for the safety of our staff and contractors. Therefore, and as a precaution due to transport disruptions impacting raw material supplies, warehousing and customer deliveries, the Sappi Saiccor, Tugela and Stanger Mills in KwaZulu-Natal temporarily ceased production as of Monday 12 July. They will resume once it is safe and practical to do so. Work on the nearly completed Saiccor expansion and upgrade project was suspended as of Friday 9 July. Sappi’s forestry operations are being reviewed on a daily basis. There has been no material damage to any of the plants. Insurance is in place for all assets. Global shipments to customers through the Port of Durban have also been impacted due to limitations in service, logistics and closure of warehouse service providers.

“Sappi is deeply saddened by the events unfolding in South Africa and our condolences go out to the families of those in various communities who have lost loved ones. We deplore the criminal behaviour we are confronted with, which cannot be justified or excused. We have joined organised business in calling on the government to restore law and order”, said Steve Binnie Chief Executive Officer of Sappi Limited.

Sappi will update shareholders once there is any material change in the situation.

Produced by the JSE SENS Department. The SENS service is an information dissemination service administered by the JSE Limited (‘JSE’).The JSE does not, whether expressly, tacitly or implicitly, represent, warrant or in any way guarantee the truth, accuracy or completeness of the information published on SENS. The JSE, their officers, employees and agents accept no liability for (or in respect of) any direct, indirect, incidental or consequential loss or damage of any kind or nature, howsoever arising, from the use of SENS or the use of, or reliance on, information disseminated through SENS.

Sappi to temporarily cease production due to impact of civil unrest at its Saiccor, Tugela and Stanger Mills in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Posted in: Logistics 07/14/2021 - 09:36

JOHANNESBURG, July 14, 2021 (Press Release) -The unfortunate incidents of civil unrest, violence and criminal activity which are being widely reported through news channels are also impacting Sappi’s South African operations. Our primary concern is for the safety of our staff and contractors. Therefore, and as a precaution due to transport disruptions impacting raw material supplies, warehousing and customer deliveries, the Sappi Saiccor, Tugela and Stanger Mills in KwaZulu-Natal temporarily ceased production as of Monday 12 July. They will resume once it is safe and practical to do so. Work on the nearly completed Saiccor expansion and upgrade project was suspended as of Friday 9 July. Sappi’s forestry operations are being reviewed on a daily basis. There has been no material damage to any of the plants. Insurance is in place for all assets. Global shipments to customers through the Port of Durban have also been impacted due to limitations in service, logistics and closure of warehouse service providers.

“Sappi is deeply saddened by the events unfolding in South Africa and our condolences go out to the families of those in various communities who have lost loved ones. We deplore the criminal behaviour we are confronted with, which cannot be justified or excused. We have joined organised business in calling on the government to restore law and order”, said Steve Binnie Chief Executive Officer of Sappi Limited.

Sappi will update shareholders once there is any material change in the situation.

Produced by the JSE SENS Department. The SENS service is an information dissemination service administered by the JSE Limited (‘JSE’).The JSE does not, whether expressly, tacitly or implicitly, represent, warrant or in any way guarantee the truth, accuracy or completeness of the information published on SENS. The JSE, their officers, employees and agents accept no liability for (or in respect of) any direct, indirect, incidental or consequential loss or damage of any kind or nature, howsoever arising, from the use of SENS or the use of, or reliance on, information disseminated through SENS.

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