Teck Resources, a Canadian mining company, is taking a significant step towards reducing the carbon footprint of its supply chain by adopting wind propulsion for one of its bulk carrier vessels. Teck will join forces with German shipping company Oldendorff Carriers to equip the vessel Dietrich Oldendorff with Flettner rotor sails, in a joint investment set to be completed by mid-2024.
This move aligns with the broader industry trend of resources companies embracing alternative fuels and power sources to effectively cut emissions. Flettner rotors, designed to generate lift from wind, offer an additional thrust that significantly reduces fuel consumption. What makes this initiative even more commendable is the use of recycled materials, including approximately 342,000 plastic bottles, in the construction of these rotors by Norsepower.
Teck anticipates that the inclusion of these rotors, paired with other emission-saving measures, will result in a remarkable 55% reduction in emissions. This equates to an annual decrease of over 17,000 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions, which is equivalent to taking 3,500 gasoline-powered passenger vehicles off the road.
Additionally, Teck and Oldendorff are collaborating on a biofuel pilot project for another bulk carrier vessel, reaffirming their commitment to exploring various sustainable options in their quest to lower emissions.
This innovative approach adopted by Teck Resources showcases their dedication towards environmental stewardship and sets a compelling example for the industry as a whole.
