BHP, Melbourne-based resource company, issued a bulk carrier tender for LNG-fuelled transport for up to 27 million tonnes of its iron ore. According to the company, ‘it is the world’s first such tender.’
Specifically, the tender is available for a select group of industry leaders, from ship owners, banks and LNG fuel network providers.
In the meantime, the tender looks for new solutions that can reduce GHG emissions and increase productivity from BHP’s freight requirements due to the fact that LNG-fuelled transport more than 10% of its iron ore.
Rashpal Bhatti, vice president, maritime and supply chain excellence commented
Through this tender, we are seeking potential partners who share our ambition of lowering emissions to the maritime supply chain.
Mr Bhatti continued that although LNG is not the sustainable homogenous fuel that they could opt for, for a zero carbon future, the company will not wait for a 100% compliant solution, as along with partners they can still mark some progress.
Concluding, Mr Bhatti added
We are fully supportive of the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) decision to impose lower limits on sulphur levels in marine fuels.
