April 10, 2026
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In line with aims and focus on sustainability with respect to the cutting down of scope 3 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions in ocean trade, Tata Steel deployed the first-ever bio-fuel-powered vessel. The carrier titled Frontier Sky is operated by Tata NYK Shipping and is owned by NYK. It has completed the trial of biofuel use to carry cargo by Tata Steel.
The voyage involved carrying a cargo loaded with ~1,60,000 tons of coal imported from Gladstone in Australia to India’s Dhamra.
Tata Steel intended to cut scope 3 emissions in marine transportation; NYK too had similar intentions, which wanted to assure safe and sound vessel operation along with the reduction of GHG emission during its second trial of biofuel use. NYK offered technical support that included refuelling arrangements with regards to biofuel and planning regarding engine operation.
Tata NYK offered operational extensive support as well as know-how during the voyage. The knowledge gained from the test voyage will be shared between the three companies. They will collaborate toward the shared goal of decarbonization.
Biofuels are carbon-neutral. This is because carbon dioxide absorbed by the biomass source is equivalent to the carbon dioxide let out when fuels are burned. GHG emissions are projected to experience a reduction by approximately 9% when biofuels are in use as opposed to traditional bunkers.
Ranjan Sinha, the Chief Group Shipping and Director Raw Material Procurement at Tata Steel, has reportedly mentioned that a Proof of Concept (PoC) for alternate fuel is just the first step in augmenting sustainability efforts when it comes to shipping. He also expressed his excitement to have collaborated with Tata NYK on such a path-breaking trial. He also added that he aims to leapfrog in the future from PoC to large-scale implementations.
Earlier in 2021, Tata Steel had signed an MoU with Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), an international marine transport group. The agenda is to introduce environmentally friendly and sustainable shipping solutions. The firm became the world’s first steel producer to have joined the Sea Cargo Charter (SCC) in the mission of reducing emissions of ‘Scope 3’ greenhouse gas in the ocean trade.
Reference: tatasteel.com
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