Hecksher introduces a Fuel Switch Route for Less-than-Container Load (LCL) imports from Shanghai to Gothenburg, where verified maritime biofuel insets are applied to reduce the fossil emissions associated with these shipments. The initiative, part of the Greencarrier Blue Initiative, ensures that every import on this trade lane automatically includes certified biofuel insets. These are fully financed by Hecksher and Greencarrier and implemented without added cost or any operational changes for customers.
Building on this foundation, Hecksher is now integrating verified biofuel insets as a standard part of its service on one of the world’s busiest trade lanes. By covering the full cost of the insets, the company removes both complexity and financial barriers for customers looking to lower the emissions linked to their shipments.
“The Fuel Switch Route demonstrate that reducing emissions in shipping doesn’t have to be complicated. Sustainability can be integrated into everyday logistics, rather than treated as an optional feature, showing that our industry has the tools to take real responsibility for its footprint,” says Patrik Westraeus, Head of Sustainability at Greencarrier.
For each shipment, Hecksher matches and retires a verified volume of maritime biofuel insets through a certified book-and-claim system. This ensures that a specific and measurable CO₂ reduction is allocated, with full transparency and third-party verification.
In addition, Hecksher extends the concept of low-emission supply chains by partnering with trusted hauliers for the trucking leg. Depending on the final destination, shipments are handled by electric, HVO100, or Euro 6 trucks, further reducing the emissions associated with inland transport.
“With the Fuel Switch Route, we’re making fossil-free shipping a standard part of our service. From the sea leg to the last mile, every shipment is designed to reduce its carbon footprint, without adding complexity or cost for our customers,” says Patrik Rössberger, Managing Director Hecksher Sweden.
The launch of the Fuel Switch Route between Shanghai and Gothenburg builds on the the Shipping Made Fossil Free concept, which has allowed customers to test biofuel insets at no cost. With this step, Hecksher creates a long-term approach where lower-emission shipping is built into every shipment, rather than provided as an extra option.
About Maritime Biofuel Insets
The maritime biofuel used for Hecksher’s insets is produced from a sustainable feedstock, more specifically agricultural waste. After processing and certification, it is supplied into the maritime fuel system, where it contributes to reducing lifecycle CO₂ emissions compared with conventional marine fuels. The insetting model operates through a book-and-claim system, ensuring that the associated CO₂ reductions are traceable, third-party-verified, and transparently documented, even though the biofuel is not physically used on the specific vessel performing the transport.
Shipping Made Fossil Free – Hecksher
