CBS Expert: Stronger Policies Crucial After Maersk Scales Back Green Fuel Plans

Maersk’s recent decision to scale back its ambitions for adopting green fuels, reported by Børsen on February 23, 2025, highlights significant challenges in the shipping industry's transition to sustainable energy. Despite previously being a leader in decarbonization, Maersk now acknowledges that the widespread use of alternative fuels such as methanol and biodiesel will take longer than initially expected.

03/05/2025

CBS Assistant Professor Christian Hendriksen explains that Maersk’s adjustment reflects broader structural barriers facing the industry, notably the limited availability and high costs of green fuels. “The industry is ready for change, but without stronger political frameworks and economic incentives, the transition will remain slow,” Hendriksen told Børsen.

Hendriksen identifies two critical challenges. First, progress in green fuel development has been slower than anticipated, with setbacks currently outweighing successes. This uncertainty creates difficulties for shipping companies already investing in vessels designed for sustainable fuels. Without a clear improvement in fuel supply, achieving climate goals becomes increasingly challenging. Second, Hendriksen stresses the urgent need for robust political frameworks. "Policymakers must provide the necessary push to accelerate the transition," he emphasizes. "Without clear regulations and effective support, the reduction of the climate impact of shipping will remain significantly delayed."

The Børsen article also highlights Danish Shipping's call for strategic partnerships, particularly among Nordic countries, to boost regional green fuel production. It further underscores the necessity of international collaboration beyond Europe, notably with Morocco and Egypt, whose strategic positions and renewable energy infrastructure are essential to global green fuel supplies. Researchers at CBS's Department of Operations Management and CBS Maritime are actively addressing these complex supply chain challenges. Their work examines not only issues of green fuel availability but also broader dynamics impacting global trade, ensuring that supply chains remain resilient and sustainable amid geopolitical and economic shifts.
Insights from this research are integrated directly into CBS's educational programs, preparing students to navigate and resolve real-world sustainability and supply chain challenges effectively.

For more information, please contact Christian Hendriksen at che.om@cbs.dk or Head of Department Carsten Ørts Hansen at ch.om@cbs.dk

The page was last edited by: Department of Operations Management // 03/05/2025