Zeebrugge, Belgium – Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (K LINE) has announced a landmark achievement in its decarbonization journey, commencing the use of bio-LNG fuel for its car carrier, the “OCEANUS HIGHWAY.” The pioneering bunkering operation, facilitated by Shell Western LNG B.V. (Shell), took place at the Port of Zeebrugge on June 16, 2025, with the vessel receiving 500 tons of the advanced fuel.
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Fuel with Negative Carbon Impact
This bio-LNG, also known as liquefied bio methane (LBM), is derived from renewable organic waste and residue. Crucially, it holds the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC-EU) and boasts a lifecycle carbon intensity of less than zero, from production to consumption. This “negative carbon” footprint is attributed to a methodology that includes avoided CO2e emissions from improved agricultural practices, aligning with the EU’s Renewable Energy Directive II (RED II).
Seamless Integration with Existing LNG Infrastructure
The adoption of bio-LNG is a strategic move for “K” LINE, as it presents a “drop-in” solution that seamlessly integrates with existing LNG infrastructure, making it an immediately effective pathway to decarbonization for the shipping industry.
Shell Marine Applauds Scalable Bio-LNG Adoption
Dexter Belmar, Vice President of Shell Downstream LNG, emphasized the fuel’s potential: “Bio-LNG is a scalable solution we can use today. It is great for Shell to collaborate with key shipping players like “K” LINE that are taking the lead in the adoption of bio-LNG. Together, we’re helping to build industry-wide momentum in the transition to renewable fuels. Bio-LNG’s increasing availability and commercial viability gives our customers confidence that their dual-fuel LNG fleets are ready to further reduce emissions.”
“K” LINE Reinforces Commitment to Net-Zero by 2050
Hiroto Arai, General Manager of the “K” LINE Environmental/Technical Strategy Group, reiterated the company’s commitment to sustainability: “Our goal is to achieve net-zero GHG emissions by 2050, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in maritime transport is one of our top priorities. Our beginning to use bio-LNG fuel is a significant step towards our net-zero GHG emissions goal. Additionally, we feel that our partnership with Shell, a leading global energy company, puts us in a position where we will be able to substantially impact the shipping industry’s transition to renewable fuels. We will continue to work diligently on the introduction of renewable fuels to achieve net-zero GHG emissions by 2050.”
Aligned with Environmental Vision 2050
This initiative aligns directly with “K” LINE’s ambitious “Environmental Vision 2050: Blue Seas for the Future.” The company has set an interim target for 2030 to improve CO2 emission efficiency by 50% from 2008 levels, exceeding the International Maritime Organization (IMO) target of a 40% improvement. The ultimate goal remains net-zero GHG emissions by 2050.
As part of its action plan, “K” LINE is actively pursuing the introduction of new low environmental-impact fuels, including zero-emission fuels like ammonia and hydrogen, alongside carbon-neutral options such as bio-LNG and synthetic fuels. This latest development with Shell Marine marks a significant stride in that direction, underscoring “K” LINE’s dedication to a greener maritime future.
About Shell Marine
Shell Marine is at the forefront of the maritime energy transition, delivering innovative solutions to meet the sector’s evolving fuel and emissions challenges. From advanced lubricants and alternative fuels to technical services and digital tools, Shell Marine supports customers in driving efficiency, reliability, and sustainability across their fleets. With a clear focus on collaboration, Shell Marine is empowering the maritime sector to navigate the shift to cleaner energy sources.
About Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (K LINE)
Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) is a leading global provider of maritime transportation services, specializing in a wide range of vessels, including car carriers, bulk carriers, container ships, LNG carriers, and tankers. Founded in 1919, the company has built a reputation for excellence in shipping operations, with a strong focus on safety, environmental sustainability, and innovation.
As a pioneer in the maritime industry, K LINE has consistently embraced cutting-edge technologies and best practices to improve operational efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of its fleet. The company is committed to advancing the shipping industry’s transition toward a more sustainable future, with ongoing efforts to adopt low-impact fuels and technologies, such as LNG and ammonia, to reduce emissions and support decarbonization.
At the heart of K LINE’s mission is a dedication to meeting the evolving needs of its customers while contributing to global environmental sustainability. Through innovation and responsible practices, K LINE is shaping the future of the maritime industry.
Source K Line | Shell Marine