A major push to slash shipping-related carbon emissions in the Pacific was launched in Suva on Friday, with the unveiling of a new program aimed at helping freight customers reduce their greenhouse gas footprint.
The “Voyage to Zero” initiative, introduced aboard the MV Apia Chief and officially launched by Minister for Environment and Climate Change Mosese Bulitavu, supports carbon insetting through the use of second-generation biofuels.
“This program allows customers to benefit from GHG reductions achieved through the use of second-generation biofuels across Swire Shipping’s fleet,” organisers said.
Swire Shipping chief executive officer Jeremy Sutton said the company was committed to supporting the maritime industry’s journey towards net zero.
“The launch of Voyage to Zero, and transition to biofuel, are important steps in our decarbonisation strategy that will allow us to provide greater support to customers looking to reduce their emissions,” Mr Sutton said.
“Though the Pacific Island nations contribute the least to global emissions, they face some of the gravest consequences from climate change.
“By introducing greener fuels in the South Pacific, we stand united with our Pacific Island partners, sharing in their vision and determination for a resilient, thriving, and sustainable future.”
Mr Sutton said carbon insetting enabled companies to reduce their carbon footprint by investing in emissions reduction or carbon removal projects within their own value chain or sector.
“With Voyage to Zero, freight customers can purchase and claim GHG savings from second-generation biofuel voyages (through a book and claim chain of custody model), even if their cargoes are not transported on the same vessel.
“Emissions savings are calculated based on comparisons with reference fossil fuels on an energy equivalent basis, using independently verified data.”
In April 2025, the company announced that three of its vessels serving the South Pacific had made the switch to B24 second-generation biofuel blends.
