G2 Ocean, the joint venture between Gearbulk and Grieg Star that is the largest open hatch bulker operator, has set an ambition to become net zero by 2050.

It said it will offer net-zero transport options this year and bring in zero-emissions-capable vessels by 2030 as part of aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions per transported unit by a minimum of 40% by 2030 from 2008 levels.

The company will also work with customers and partners to test new green technologies and with ports to build sustainable infrastructure and procedures.

“These ambitions demonstrate our commitment to creating sustainable value for our customers while strengthening our future competitiveness and supporting environmental change in the shipping industry,” said chief executive Arthur English.

G2 Ocean said it has already undertaken initiatives towards net zero.

Last December, it completed a trial voyage from Europe to North America using biofuel to power its 46,400-dwt general cargo vessel Star Istind (built 1999).

The group is exploring other alternative fuels with 11 industry partners, including using green ammonia to power open hatch vessels on transatlantic voyages.

It has also established an environmental, social and governance and decarbonisation manager role within the company.

G2 Ocean operates a core fleet of about 126 open hatch and conventional bulk vessels between 23,500 dwt and 73,000 dwt across 37 trade lanes, transporting mainly pulp and paper, steel, lumber and primwood, bulk and project cargoes.